Mackerel Sky

October 2022

Wow!

Breathtaking setting and unique theatre experience. Thank you.

August 2022

Not to be missed

You will need to book ahead but if you are in the vicinity this is a must to visit. The gardens and overall experience are a great "big tick" on the bucket list

August 2022

Oh wow!

Stunning location and a fantastic production of The Merry Wives of Windsor. A unique and very special experience that should be on everyone's bucket list. Remember to bring lots of cushions and blankets and a picnic. Oh and more cushions! 😆

July 2022

Simply breathtaking!

We visited the Minack Theatre for the first time

June 2022

Fantastic setting

Beautiful, what a setting! Take a cushion and blanket and it’s a great way to spend an evening.

October 2020

Bev

Magical

September 2020

Mischief Movie Night at the Minack

Fantastic setting and a very entertaining show. The staff were brilliant and the social distancing worked well. If you have the opportunity to visit (for a tour or with tickets for a show) don't miss it. It's an amazing place.

August 2019

Minack theatre

Brilliant, a must, the play was excellent

June 2019

Best open-air theatre ever

I came here back in the 1970's and was fascinated. I came again now and nothing has changed. Where can you say that? Unique place, great artists (we enjoyed Shakespeare), incredible atmosphere. Out of this world! But take warm clothes, it can be cold later!

September 2018

Amazing place !

We had booked to see a performance months ago as a friend recommended it. We were not disappointed. This is an amazing place.

August 2018

A wonder to see

£5 each to view a theatre seems steep but when you go through the doors and see the view on a sunny day its well worth it. One of the best views Ive ever seen in Cornwall.

August 2017

Beautiful

Stunning views, gardens, ammenities and the actual theatre itself is worth the trip down alone. Recommended to anyone visiting Cornwall, add the MinackTheatre to your itinerary.

October 2016

An Absolute Must!

The views from this magical place are gorgeous and all the gardens that are painstakingly laid out between the seats are a real pleasure to see,but the theatre itself is so spectacular that it almost takes your breath away.We have been to Cornwall lots of times and have always promised ourselves a visit to the Minack but this was the first time that we had made it.I have to say that having been once we will certainly be returning.Thank you Rowena Cade for starting this truly magical place!

September 2015

An absolute must!

June 2013

Worth a visit. Wonderful views, sea birds amazing to watch. Warm welcome good cafe, great cakes!

June 2013

A unique experience!

What can one say? This was my second trip to The Minack, but my partners first. She was utterly enthralled - the production of "Mack & Mabel" was fabulous! But, let's be honest, the real star of the show is the theatre itself - absolutely tranquil setting, looking out over the sea and Porthcurno Beach while the production unfurls before you (there is something truly magical about the sound of the sea drifting in during the quiet parts of the show). Really - if you do one thing whilst in Cornwall, please make it a trip to see a play at The Minack Theatre. You surely will not regret it - and it's outstanding value for money too (less than a tenner for a seat)!

November 2012

Minack Theatre – Spectacular

The story about how the theatre was created is fascinating.

The views from inside the theatre and out to sea are stunning.

Once you have visited the theatre either walk down the footpath or go to the car back at The Telegraph Museum and walk down to Porthcurno Beach. What a way to spend a day.

Anne Gage

September 2012

Amazing

Have wanted to visit Minack for ages & it lived up to expectations, fantastic views & what an amazing story.

August 2012

Wonderful evening at the Minack Theatre

Wonderful evening at the Minack Theatre performance of David Copperfield. The weather on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon had been appalling - pouring rain- but we received text updates from the Minack, and in line with the BBC weather forecast the rain stopped in time for the show and later on the moon shone over the sea. The play was very well done and we all enjoyed it, even the teenage boys. We wrapped up warmly and invested in hire of the Minack padded seat cushions with backs. This year we had stone seats with backs which were much more comfortable than sitting on the grass terraces. I booked the seats online about a month in advance, and I believe they were sold out for the week's run of the play.

August 2012

Squashbox Theatre - Craig

If Squashbox repeats in 2013 ...you must go and see it. Morning shows for children - but equally enthralling for Adults.
Craig is a fantastic performer and you get the chance to see the Minack.

But you will need to book - performances in August are usually sold out a few days in advance.

July 2012

Amazing and great value

I rang the theatre to ask for advice and they were incredibly helpful.Unfortunately the weather was rubbish - but the show went on and we enjoyed a great play in an amazing location - even the weather couldnt ruin the evening. Well worth a visit and good value for money.

June 2012

Worth every penny - the history about how the theatre was created is fascinating; the views from inside the theatre and out to sea are stunning.

May 2012

Excellent attraction with fantastic views.

We tried to book tickets online prior to our visit, but the theatre was fully booked. However, when we visited during the day, we found that the booking office had received some cancellations and we were delighted to be able to get tickets for two days later . Worth checking with the booking office when you visit!

May 2012

MINACK THEATRE

This is truly uplifting, the story about it is amazing ,the views are simply wonderful. No plays on when we visited but truly a great place to spend some time, free car-park!! decent reasonably priced cafe, friendly staff.

April 2012

Mesmerising

We got tickets to see Titanic The Musical which was being performed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the sinking. Adult tickets were a very reasonable £8 for the upper terraces, which gave a decent view. We all wrapped up warm with blankets and foam sit mats (essential) and thoroughly enjoyed the show. The backdrop of the sea and cliffs on the opposite side of the bay gave this show special significance. The real water gushing down the steps and the marine distress flare illuminating the sea made this a truly emotional and memorable experience.
Go to the Minack Theatre - you won't be disappointed

October 2011

Spectacular!

Read the story of Minack Theatre before visiting and then marvel at what you see there!

October 2011

Worth Going

Saw Pirates of Penzance in Sept and was fab. Do take warm clothes even if the weather seems mild and totally exposed to elements! My partner nearly had frost bite on his ears so had to buy a silly hat! Some people who were not dressed for cold weather left at the interval.

September 2011

Wonderful - everyone should visit this place, truly amazing.

August 2011

A wonderful place to visit, for all the family. Attended chidren's storytelling session on a Tuesday morning (on Tues. & Thurs. morning during summer holidays), which was a great hit with both children and adults. Enjoyed some delicious Cornish pasties in the cafe on site before heading down to Porthcurno beach below - a great day out!Superb views when the weather is fine.

July 2011

Fantastic. Super setting for The Death of Sherlock Holmes which was funny and very entertaining. Wrap up warm, even on a summer's evening, and take cushions to sit on. Plenty of opportunity in the break to wander round and explore,taking photographs, up and down the steps. We bought fish'n'chips in Sennen to eat there which were lovely rather than have the hassle of carrying a picnic round all day.

July 2011

Great Evening

A superb location, made even better by a great performance.
Will return.

June 2011

Marvellous Minack

We loved the Minack: the turquoise sea as a backdrop to the action on the stage. We were there for a matinee on a hot September day in 2010. A traditional production of Gilbert and Sullivan's Mikardo by actors from Cambridge University. Many years ago, a friend had performed in this at the Minack.

Words of warning: the tiers are very steep, and the sun can be very hot: not a venue for the very elderly (who were there when we were, but a couple were overcome by heat). Recommend the canvas seat covers which make the narrow tiered seats, cut from the rock, more comfy.

June 2011

The Minack Theatre

A wonderful venue. Attending at least one event is a must. Take plenty of warm clothing along with a picnic and something hot to drink because you really are exposed to the elements. Early booking is essential for many events. If you love the theatre then a visit to the Minack is not to be missed. Plenty of easy access parking.

March 2010

A stunning location for this original open air theatre. Fantastic views with the possibility of fabulous sunsets. If you are lucky you may also see dolphins. Book early for the summer time plays as it is very popular and remember to take a picnic and lots of warm clothing!

Jean Speake

October 2008

Minack Theatre

Open air theatre built by Rowena Cade in the most stunning cliff top setting near Penzance at Porthcurno.
Whether you attend a performance or simply visit the site (there's the Rowena Cade visitors' centre and a cafe), you'll find the setting utterly breathtaking. I'm still in awe of the determination of Rowena Cade to create this utterly unique theatre where a great variety of imaginative performances take place. The weather is important, so it's a good idea to check the forecast before you book.

- J Wallwork

July 2008

This must be the most dramatic setting for an open air theatre in Britain. Book early if you want to go to a performance.

July 2008

Wow is not enough

To say that it has 'wow' factor is not enough. No photograph does it justice. People walk in through the gates for the first time and their jaws hit the floor. Daytime visitors can enjoy the exhibition about Rowena Cade, the single lady who built the theatre with her own hands, and take refreshments in what must be the most spectacularly appointed coffee shop in the country. But it's even better to come on a summer evening when there is a show on. No trip to Penwith is complete without experiencing this unique and wonderful theatre.

July 2023

St Michael's Mount

Wonderful. Worth waiting for the tide to be out so as to experience the walk across the causeway. The castle is stunning and full of interest about the lives of the St Aubyn family. The garden, cascading down the cliff, is surely unique and the views are absolutely splendid. No one visiting Penzance and Marazion should miss this treasure and experience

May 2023

Booking necessary

Be aware that you need to book the trip to St Michaels Mount with the NT in the summer months, although you can walk out on the causeway you need to book to actually go onto the island.

April 2023

Magical

We went twice here, wonderful to take the dog for a walk on the beach ( dogs not allowed on the Mount itself though) take in the magical view, make a lot of pictures and sit on the terrace that overlooks the Mount. Absolutely worth half a day's wonder about.

March 2023

Magical St Michael's Mount

Marazion is just 15 mins by car from the cottage and there is ample, specific parking by the beach for Mount visitors. The best way to reach Mount is to walk across the causeway. There is an excellent visitor centre, cafe and art exhibition. Gardens are stunning and extensive views from castle, which has interesting historic interior- especially the chapel

August 2022

Magical

Ended up here at the end of a pilgrimage walk from Lelant. As we came to the top of the hill we looked out to sea and spotted the castle through the mist. As we descended, there was sunshine across the beach and we loved the walk across the causeway. Beautiful gardens, interesting displays and an informative tour of the castle. Magical day.

August 2022

Great half day out

Lovely spot and ensure you book in advance and know the tidal situation. High tide get the boat and low walk the causeway. Try to do both ! Good for kids plenty to see and big area to let off steam. Lovely morning was had and returned to Marazion where we picked up lunch and spent pm on the beach. A good day out.

June 2022

No free entry any more

Been visiting for years. You can no longer enter just to use the cafe or toilet, like you used to. We had to book tickets on our phones at the gate and it allocated us a time slot - so we had to walk back into Marazion to kill an hour before walking back across. Bit of a shame. Still utterly beautiful though.

May 2022

St Michael's Mount

We are National Trust Members and didn't actually book this. After walking across the causeway we were told we needed to have booked online tickets. We then did this on our phone and were admitted easily enough. Cafe has been updated and the plant sales area changed but for the better with more seating. A wonderful castle and beautiful gardens. You need to book a ticket for the boat trip before setting off if you cannot walk the causeway. You can't buy a ticket on the boat anymore. A fabulous day out.

September 2021

Requires booking ahead

Be aware, whatever your previous experience, the NT require a booking even to reach the Mount harbour, never mind entering the castle. Also note, there is very little phone signal on the beach so you cannot book there!

July 2021

Well worth a visit

Exceeded my expectations. Lovely day out.

June 2021

St Michael’s Mount

Very enjoyable day out but quite a climb.A long queue to pay for parking about 15 mins as very difficult to work out how to pay

June 2021

Be prepared to now pay for entry.

We had visited St Michael's Mount before and you could go into the outer areas without having to pay . But now it is £10 for a ticket , so be prepared .

August 2019

Another must visit

Fabulous but get there between 9-10 as it gets very very busy...also check website to see when garden is open!

June 2019

Very special

A crazy place. Copy of Normandy but different. A museum but people still live there. Garden is also spectacular. Short trip by boat is nice.

April 2016

Perfect also for children

August 2015

A MUST TO VISIT....

St Michael's Mount is a truly unique and magical place and was the highlight of our stay. Check the tides on the website; you need to walk the Causeway one way and get the boat in the other as the tide will come in/out while you are there. I would advise going early during the high season. That way you will park easily in the National Trust Car Park on the beach and will avoid the worst of the crowds. Both National Trust Cafes on the Mount do amazing food, often sourced from local producers, and they have spectacular views of the mainland. The Crab Rarebit will linger in my memory...mmm!

The warnings of uneven ground should be heeded; you do need to wear supportive footwear...no flip-flops! The cobbled, steep paths up to the Mount are poorly maintained and have great gaps in between the cobbles. One section known as 'The Pilgrim Steps' dates from mediaeval times and are now little more than tumbledown boulders that have to be scrambled up. Buggies are better left behind or you will end up carrying them (and the kids)!

However, it is SO worth the climb for the amazing views from the top and to look around the house and Church. What a history! Medieval Abbey, to Civil War fortress, and now a private residence. Stunning!

August 2015

Be prepared to hike

Whether you walk across the causeway or get the ferry (likelihood is you'll do both), at some point you will have to walk. The walk from quay to either the gardens or the castle is a bit of a trek, with the latter needing the visitor to scramble up steep cobbled steps and pathways. Once you reach either the strenuous walk is immediately forgotten as you are left agog at the stunning views, both natural and man made.
The top of the castle commands spectacular views across Mount Bay, with Newlyn, Penzance and Marazion all within a perfect vista. If you're brave enough you can peer over the ramparts and spy the fabulous gardens from on high.
Children are easily entertained by the castle quiz and they get a prize at the end, adults can simply wonder at the artefacts on display and the fabulous architecture.

October 2012

Well worth a visit

October 2012

Thoroughly enjoyed our trip to St Michael's mount. The castle was delightful and there was much more to it than we had expected. Would recommend a walking stick/pole for the ascent to the castle.

September 2012

Perfect day out

We love St Michael's Mount. If the tide is right you can walk across to the mount and then get a boat ride back. The house and surrounding area are very atmospheric and if you are fortunate enough you will get to see the Basking Sharks. A great day out and well worth a visit.

August 2012

Good day out for all the family

Took the ferry as it was high tide. A long queue but with several ferries we didn't have to wait long. Kids enjoyed the ferry ride and the interesting things in the castle. Quite a steep climb on cobbles up to the castle so wished I had worn more sensible shoes but worth the climb. Cafe's were good and also places to picnic. Lovely views from the castle. Spent several hours on St Michael's Mount.

May 2012

A truly worthwhile visit and highly recommended. But you do need to be physically fit and able to cope with steep uphills on cobbled paths! Not for the elderly or infirm!

April 2012

Lovely day out

We got there on a small boat. Had a nice scone in the cafe and waked around the house. Lovely day out

September 2011

Fabulous views on the mount !

The views are amazing and the castle is full of history. A bonus is the castle is still inhabited as a family home, which gives it a nice lived in feel. Gardens look fantastic from the ramparts, but are not open every day. Phone up before you visit to check tide times. We went out by boat, then walked back across the causeway.
The NT cafe is lovely, and you can have an above average waitress served meal.

September 2011

I would recommend everyone to make the walk across to the Mount, it is magical but do watch the tides!

July 2011

ST M's Mount

Well worth being a member of the National Trust to be able to enjoy this treasure. Great afternoon's outing for family - we had our 2 older teenage kids who were very happy to go round the castle. Lovely place to sit and relax too enjoying an ice cream after you've viewed the property. Keep your eye on the tide though - it comes in very quickly but it adds to the fun to have to wade back through thigh-high water!

June 2011

The view from Sunnyside over St Michael's Mount is magical and a trip there doesn't disappoint. We were impatient for the tide to recede and so began our visit by paddling over the causeway, an adventure in itself. The walk up to the house was an exciting scramble, but not for the infirm. At the top the views were tremendous and the property quite as wacky as the octagonal dairy on the way up suggested it would be. Lunch in the tea shop was one of the best we had during our stay. All in all, a delight. Brilliant for anyone with children. Best not paddle over the causeway if you're taking the buggy though.

January 2009

Wonderful St Michael's Mount

When in the area there is nothing nicer to do, whatever the weather, than walk or take a boat to the Mount (depending on the tide). At low tide you can meander up the causeway the to the Mount where a nice NT cafe awaits and a steep walk up to the castle (passing over the giant's heart on the way), here the views across the Mount's gardens are second to none. A magestic place.

January 2009

Check the tide times before you leave, as it's great to walk over to the mount. If you have small children it is better to walk or bring a baby carrier as pushing a buggy on the cobbles is really hard work. It's a magical place, nothing quite like it, it's amazing how the access to the mount suddenly appears and then disappears later in the day. There is also a fab outside play area for children with plenty to do for small tots and children up to about 12 years.

January 2009

Sub tropical gardens

Great attraction to visit if you haven't already been. The castle is worth the climb, and the gardens are wonderful - many sub tropical species there which can only be found in this part of England. Well worth a visit.

January 2009

Set out from a beautiful beach, this is a great place for a day out. If the tide is in you can get a boat across to the Mount which is great fun. There are lovely gardens as well as the Mount to explore.

September 2008

A trip to St Michael's Mount is a wonderful way of spending a sunny summer's afternoon or even a beautiful autumn one, if you want to avoid the crowds! The view of the castle in the bay is so well known, it is lovely to get another perspective of the coastline by looking back from the island to Marazion beach and the sweep of the bay to Penzance. To get the full experience you need to walk across the causeway at low tide (there are often puddles!!) but the walk up to the castle itself is very steep, so not a day for heels! The restaurant is nice, and there is also a tea-room/cafe, but we like to buy pasties in Philps at Marazion and sit round the island's harbour to eat them. On your ascent to the castle don't forget to look out for the heart of Cormoran the Giant, now turned to stone...

July 2008

Wonderful five minute trip by sea or if the tide is low, you can walk across the causeway to this fairy tale castle which dominates Mounts Bay. Steep walk up to the castle itself which is not for the faint hearted! Those who would rather not can wander round the little harbour. Good coffee and pasties at the Cafe or there is the Sail Loft Restaurant. N.T. shop. There is plenty to see in the Castle and the views from it are stunning.

August 2017

Sennen Cove

If you want to have a good swim forget Sennen cove!
We are from the generation of swimmers that believe you don't actually need to don a wet suit every time you venture into the sea. We went up to the far end of the beach where it was quiet and away from the multitude of surfers so that we could have a pleasant swim without being hounded by them, only to be told by a lifeguard (belly down on a surf board!) that it was too dangerous as it was a bit 'rippy'. Talk about health and safety gone mad! We are both experienced swimmers and the beach is a gently shelving one with no evidence of rip tides at all. Added to that there were beginner surfers in the very area we were swimming in.
We believe that deterring people from swimming on this beach is totally money motivated as surfing is such big business on this beach; we spotted at least three different surfing schools advertising lessons. It's not in their interest to have swimmers getting in the way of their precious hoard of learner surfers. It's disgraceful that there isn't a designated area for swimmers only - blatant discrimination against people who only want to swim.
Thankfully we found two beautiful beaches further west to swim off, one being Porthchapel, the other, Porthcurno. Thank God they still exist!

August 2015

LOVELY BEACH TO VISIT

You drive down a steep hill into Sennen Cove with a tight turn at the bottom into the busy car park. Right ahead of you is the Ben Tunnicliffe Beach Café; slightly more upmarket than the average beach café with a fantastic outdoor terrace with beach views. The food was excellent and it is a great place to read a book with a nice glass of wine or a cocktail.

The beach itself has beautiful white sands and is a great place for the kids.

February 2014

This is the perfect family friendly place.

July 2012

Stunning location

Fantastic beach and location - great place to visit

October 2011

Sennen Cove, wide sandy beach with plenty of scope for surfing, swimming or paddling, 5 star. A place of pure joy! Easy parking, excellent cafe and a vast beach to make ones own. Steep descent into the Cove but plenty of passing places. Would that I could live close by..........

October 2011

Well worth a visit!

Have visited Sennen Cove many times over the years and never tire of going back there. Interesting village and a superb beach, a lifeboat station to visit, wonderful view to Cape Cornwall etc etc! But, we were there only last week on a busy afternoon and - despite the harbour car park being more than 60% full - the public loos there were locked and barred! Not impressed by that. The good news is that there are alternative loos at the beach car park, so all was not lost!

August 2011

A magnificent beach, especially at low tide, which stands comparison with any other. Framed by the cliffs, and with the water's azure hue and the song of the Atlantic rollers, it has a magical quality which draws you back to it. Facing north-west it has fabulous sunsets, and only a churl could fail to be indelibly impressed by it.

April 2010

The curve of the bay from Sennen in the south to Gwenver in the north with it's two great headlands and steeply sloping backdrop put this beach into a natural amphitheatre. It also creates a gentle variation in sea-state along it's length, more exposed as you head North, so you can often find conditions that suit your confidence.

April 2009

Beautiful beach - amazing at sunset!

April 2009

Beautiful at sunset!

This beach is gorgeous with beautiful sand and amazing water! My last visit was early evening at sunset when it was stunning and peaceful. The cafe above is great for a coffee or meal too!

November 2008

The ultimate beach

...actually it's the journey BACK UP the hill to the car park which is a bit of a trek - but hey, it's only 5 minutes away! This beach is literally stunning. The sand is golden and endless, the water blue and the waves a joy to ride. As with most beaches there is an Easter-September dog ban on Whitesands (the one nearer to Sennen Cove); but just beyond the rocks, Gwenver is dog friendly all year round. There is a discreet cafe right on Whitesands, a very helpful surf hire outlet, and during the summer months both Whitesands and Gwenver are served by lifeguards. The kind of beach which reminds you of those long perfect sandy days of childhood, and it's probably the main reason I moved down here.

July 2008

Sennen Cove

A beautiful beach, fantastic surf, white sands (hence the name Whitesands Bay) turquoise seas. Depending on the height of the sand there are some rock pools too. In summer there tend to be sand pools on the beach so safe for toddles and good for sand castle engineers! The parking is occassionally difficult and with a small car park at the bottom of the steep hill filling by 10 on a summers day, thre is ample parking at the top of the hill, a bit of a treck down but at least a space is guaranteed.

July 2008

Surfing

Good surfing beach, but can be quite windy. Take your windbreak!

May 2013

No dogs allowed on this beach. Depends upon number of cars, but parking can be remote

August 2012

Great beach for families. Good sandcastle building and space to play. We enjoyed our walk up to Land's End.

July 2011

So beautiful we named our son Sennen!

Fantastic place for enjoying the most south westerly part of Cornwall at its very best, we've been back year after year - and yes, we really do have a 7yr old called Sennen - a choice we didn't make lightly!

Look out for dolphins, miles of clean, golden sand and lots of fresh salty sea air. Walk along the beach to get a bit more space in the busy season - but not too far that you can't make it back to the excellent beach cafe for a cup of tea or some chips!

June 2011

Sennen is the best

We've been back and back to Sennen: we love the beach with its beautiful sands, in the curve of green sandy hills. The locals are friendly too, if you go to the Market (held on Tuesdays, community hall). It's history as a typical Cornish fishing village is still obvious in the lobster pots and fishing boats in the small harbour. Spectacular sunsets over the sea.

March 2010

Traditional, sustainable fishing

Many Sennen fishermen are members of the South West Handline Fishermen's Association. Their Web site lets you trace the journey of your fish from 'hook to plate' and introduces some of the faces you're likely to see fishing at Sennen cove. www.linecaught.org.uk

April 2009

The perfect beach

Sennen is perfect on a windy stormy winters day as well as a sunny summers day with perfect blue seas, white sands and, often, dolphins in the bay.

November 2008

What is there not to love?

Now I'd be the first to admit it - I am biassed. I live in Sennen, and I'm here out of choice. I love the wild, windswept feel of the village. I love the huddled feel of the cove. The beach is second to none and is excellent for surfing. The landscape and the cliff paths (and the views from them) are simply breathtaking. The pubs are cosy and welcoming and the people are friendly. Whatever the time of year I always find something exhilarating about this area.

April 2014

A great course

A well run school with interesting and enthusiastic course tutors

April 2014

5 Star Water colour painting course

If you like painting I would highly recommend booking a course to make up part of a holiday. I had an excellent time out and about and in the studio. Thank you Maggie O’Brian.