Marazion is only four miles from Penzance. Marazion is an internationally known town as it is the setting off point for St Michaels Mount. Marazion has a long history being Cornwall's oldest chartered town, receiving its charter in 1257. It was then a more important place than Penzance, but over the centuries it was gradually surpassed.

There has been a misnomer with the origin of its name, often thought to be connected with Judaism. It originates from the Cornish Marghas Byhgan (meaning little market). The pronunciation has changed over the years to the current, Marazion.

Marazion Village Centre

Marazion as well as being picturesque in itself, is dominated by the overpowering vista of St Michaels Mount. As Marazion is the embarking point for the Mount many visitors pass through Marazion.

St Michaels Mount At High Tide

Transport

Marazion is well served by bus. As far as day visitors are concerned there is more than enough car parking available, even in mid season.

Ferry

St Michaels Mount can be reached at low tide on foot. If the tide times are not convenient then a ferry is required.

Marazion Harbour

Gwelva 

Ferries leave from three points, Gwelva, Chapel Rock or the Harbour. The departure point used is dependent on the current tidal condition.

St Michaels Mount At Low Tide With Chapel Rock in Foreground

Beaches

The beaches are safe and sandy. Note that Dogs are not allowed on the beach between Red River and the Mount's Causeway for the period Easter to 1st October.

The back beach reached via Leys Lane does not have these restriction. It is not heavily visited, plus it has interesting rock pools.

Dogs Allowed On This Beach 

Marazion Safe and Sandy Beach

Located in the market place within the Town Hall is Marazion Town Museum.

This building was once a local gaol. A cell from this period has been reconstructed and can be viewed. The exhibits include historical artefacts pertinent to Marazion.

Within the square there is a house where Charles II is reputed to have stayed when making his escape, after his defeat at Naseby.

Another interesting feature of the house are the balls on the roof. These are supposed to deter witches from  landing on it.

Marazion Town Museum