St Michael's Mount

The causeway appears at low tide like some sort of gift from the sea - a narrow ribbon of sand and stone stretching out to this castle-topped island that looks more like a fantasy illustration than something you can actually walk to. St Michael's Mount rises dramatically off the Cornish coast near Crowlas, the medieval fortress clinging to the rocky summit in a way that makes you understand why it's been fought over and fortified for centuries.

You're looking at a proper bit of history here. The castle itself dates back to the 12th century, though people have been living on this rock for much longer. Walk across the causeway at low tide - it takes about 15 minutes and feels genuinely atmospheric - and you've got a steep climb up to the castle entrance. The views across Mount's Bay are excellent, and on a clear day you can see right across to Mousehole and beyond.

It's the sort of place families will either love or find exhausting depending on their tolerance for uphill walks and spiral staircases. History enthusiasts will be engaged; casual visitors might find an hour enough. The causeway walk is the real draw for many - it's free and takes no time, so even if you skip the castle itself, it's worth the trip from nearby holiday parks like Foxglove Field Glamping or St. Ives Holiday Village.

Timing matters. Go at low tide or you'll need the ferry boat. Check opening hours before you visit - they're seasonal. The climb up is genuinely steep, so factor that in if you're with younger children or anyone not keen on stairs.