Wanted: Cornish castle caretaker

Island caretaker needed - 24th May 2021

A unique position has arisen at a Cornish castle, in the south west of England. The only drawback is that you'll need to manage without pizza deliveries.

The ancient island of St Michael's Mount, off the coast of Cornwall, is on a quest to find a castle officer. The estate is seeking someone who can remain on site a minimum of five nights weekly and has a pragmatic, 'can-do' attitude to maintenance duties.

Positioned 450 metres off the coast, ferries access the island at high tide, when the only land route is completely submerged. Since the only way on and off the island during that period is by sea, those who suffer from seasickness need not apply.

Castle steward Duncan Murdoch commented: "The best thing about living here is having a sea view from every window. The worst thing is not being able to get a pizza delivered to your door."

So, if you can survive without fast-food deliveries, you appreciate scenic views, and can cope with being isolated on an island 5 days a week, then this could be your dream job!

Jointly run by the National Trust and St Aubyn Estates, the St Aubyn family still inhabit the castle. The estate said it was searching for someone private and diplomatic. Other duties include an active approach to the safe preservation of the island and checking the public rooms after visiting hours.

The longest surviving buildings date from the 12th century, when a Benedictine monastery was founded on the island. According to legend, fishermen witnessed an apparition of St Michael there in 495 AD, giving rise to the island's name.