Hidden gem village with fairytale castle and surrounded by the sea

This ancient market town is bursting with charm, from its heavenly beaches to its historical fairytale castle, making it a staycationer's paradise.

Marazion is a fantastic getaway fit for fun at any time of the year, tucked away on the shore of Mount's Bay in Cornwall. It is two miles (3.2 km) east of Penzance, and the tidal island of St Michael's Mount is half a mile offshore. It lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, meaning its area is protected the same way in which a national park is, making it clean, safe and, of course, stunning.

The town's sandy beaches are met with turquoise blue waters that are guarded by the island's proudest feature, its fairytale castle. The fortress of the town is the famed St Michael's Mount, a tiny island just half a mile off of the coast, home to an ancient castle, and with no bridge connecting it, it is only accessible by foot or boat.

Leading up to this fascinating spot is an ancient cobbled causeway, only visible when the tide is low. Although, when the water's high, adventurers can hop into one of the many boats carrying tourists to and from the little piece of land.

A TripAdvisor review claims the experience of visiting is "magical". They wrote: "You can't go to Marazion and not explore the mount. The views are beautiful, and there's something magical about crossing a pathway that disappears during high tide. Yes, it is expensive, but it is also unique.

"The mount is a National Trust site, and so you can get in for free with your membership. The castle is fairly small but still nice to explore, with great views across the bay."

Aside from these, Marazion is also home to an idyllic beach, stretching across the shoreline within Mount's Bay. The beach looks over at the causeway with spectacular views of the legendary island. It offers the perfect spot for soaking up the sunshine or, for those seeking more adventure, plenty of water sports.

From windsurfing to kitesurfing, jet skiing and sailing, the area offers a wide range of activities to keep those busy bees happy. Not to mention, close to the beach around the Chapel Rock and Marazion Harbour areas are a number of rock pools just waiting to be explored.

Although, it's worth noting that during the summer months from July to August between peak hours, 10am-6pm, there is a seasonal dog ban in place. Aside from that, the coast has lifeguard cover from the beginning of July until the start of September, so you and the family can swim safely.

A thrilled visitor took to TripAdvisor to share their experience, saying, "Absolutely stunning beach to relax at. St Michael’s Mount is beautiful to look at. Ample parking. Overflow car parks as well. Toilets by the children’s park are free. Little coffee bar in the lane with lovely coffee and owner. We will definitely be returning in the future."

Aside from its breathtaking natural elements, the town boasts so much history as one of the UK's oldest chartered towns. It's believed to have received its charter all the way back in 1257, with the name itself deriving from "small market" and "Thursday market".

As it turns out, Marazion was a staple of the trade market right up until the mediaeval period and still prides itself on handmade crafts and goods. As Penzance grew in prominence, this little town faded into the background and remains now as a hidden gem in West Cornwall, away from the hustle and bustle.