In the Middle Ages, pilgrims often travelled by sea, faster and safer than along rough overland tracks. From Ireland, Wales and England, some arrived at the Hayle Estuary, a natural gateway into Cornwall. From there they continued on foot to Marazion, avoiding the treacherous waters around Land’s End.
The journey began in Lelant, which in medieval times was an important harbour. According to tradition, the Irish Saint Uny landed here. The church of St Uny, strategically positioned at the river mouth, offered weary pilgrims their first place to pray and rest.
Today the St Michael’s Route stands as an authentic British branch of the Camino to Santiago de Compostela.