Marazion is one of the oldest chartered towns in the UK. The first charter of incorporation was granted by Henry III in 1257 and was reaffirmed on 13th June 1595 by Queen Elizabeth I.
Many people think that Marazion has a connection with the Jewish community that was settled here. In fact, its name is derived from the important fairs and markets that were held here – the earliest recorded was in 1070.
Marazion had two significant markets: Marghas Byghan (Small Market) and Marghas Yow or Jew (Thursday Market). Time has blurred the pronunciations to Marazion – the main street in Penzance is called Market Jew Street.And, speaking of Penzance, did you know that Marazion was the major town in this area until the late medieval period when Penzance started to take over.
Marazion has always attracted visitors, many of whom came as pilgrims to the Benedictine Monastery on St Michael’s Mount and who stayed in the town. George Fox, one of the founders of the Religious Society of Friends stayed in Marazion in 1656. John Wesley, of the Wesleyan church, preached here in 1789.
Men of commerce conducted their business here as the main trunk road from London terminated in Marazion, with minor roads leading on to Penzance and Helston. In 1660 the packet post delivered to the town twice a week after leaving Truro via Penryn. The town even had its own post sorting office as late as 1986.
Fishing was an industry that provided an income for locals and although Marazion did not have a harbour at the time (although it does now) the one on St. Michael’s Mount was used to land the catches. George Blewitt, a wealthy merchant, improved the island harbour during the 18th century and so enhanced an already booming industry, making the town an even greater centre of commerce.
For centuries, tin and copper were exported from both Marazion and St. Michael’s Mount by traders and shippers. The town was surrounded by mines, such as Wheal Prosper, Wheal Crab, Wheal Rodney, Tolvadden and South Neptune. These mines remained active until a depression struck the industry in the late 19th century. You will still see many of these names today.
Agriculture remains a major industry. The warmer winters mean potatoes and brassicas can be harvested early in the year. And daffodils are grown for their bulbs, adding a splash of bright colour to winter landscapes.
The coming of the railway in Victorian times saw the first true holidaymakers arrive in Cornwall. The mild climate and bathing was seen as a respite from city life. Artists were attracted to the clear light and beautiful scenery.
*source www.marazion.info
Saint Michael's Mount
It’s a stunning place, whenever we catch a glimpse driving towards Marazion it looks like a mirage. There is so much history bound up in the island.
There is free access to the house and gardens for National Trust members. Anyone can wander over the causeway and around the harbour. Always check tide times – it can be fun wading back…if you do get caught out passenger boats ferry people back to shore for a small fee per person.
There are places to eat, gift and clothing shops and you can even buy plants grown on the island.
The house is amazing and the church is not to be missed. Be prepared to queue to get access into the house during peak times. The view while you wait though is spectacular across Mount’s Bay.
That all said, they are having to limit access due to COVID. Please look on the National Trust website for the most up to date information. We had to book a timed slot to access the garden – best to do it well in advance.
beach
We love the beaches at Marazion, they have something for everyone.
The main beach around the causeway is softly shelving and on a calm sunny day the water is crystal clear. Further west the beach becomes more pebbly, steeper and here you will find people wind surfing and kite surfing. Ocean SUP hire paddleboards out.
Go east and find Marazion’s little harbour. This is a 2 minute walk from our house and we spend a lot of time here. Situated underneath the beautiful Castle Gayer house, at high tide it’s like a swimming pool or a place to mess around on an SUP, low tide there are lots of rock pools to hunt around in.
Further east accessed down Leys Lane is yet another beach. Very much quieter and away from the crowds. Lots of fabulous rock pools and stretches of sand. You can keep walking across the beach at low time and walk up onto the SW coastal path – stay away from the bottom of the cliffs though.
shops
There is a wonderful collection of small shops and galleries in Marazion. Also a small convenience store, post office and pharmacy.
Morva is a brilliant little gift shop. Silver Origins has beautiful jewellery at reasonable prices.The Rigging is a clothes and shoe shop. Perfect if you have forgotten your swimmers or lost a Croc along the way.
Your are spoiled for choice with galleries in the centre of Marazion. Don’t miss Penn Boylan’s pottery at the very top of town, past the Fire Engine pub just before you get to the roundabout that meets the main road. Find out more about her on Facebook
