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Marazion: The tiny town dreaming big of becoming the UK's smallest city

"Marazion deserves to be celebrated," says a local councillor in the Cornish town, as it prepares to go up against Reading, Bournemouth and Middlesborough to become the UK's next city.

By Casey Magloire, news reporter

Wednesday 8 December 2021 14:01, UK

view from Marazion looking at St Michael's Mount
Image: Marazion overlooks the famous St Michael's Mount
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The small Cornish town of Marazion has bid to be officially recognised as a city for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, which would make it the tiniest one in the country.

With a population of around 1,400, Marazion faces tough competition from the likes of Reading, Bournemouth and Middlesborough, which are all vying to become the UK's next city.

The competition has been arranged by the government to celebrate Her Majesty's 70 years on the throne.

Maypole Gardens, in the heart of Marazion town centre, provide a peaceful retreat for those needing a moment from the crowds.
Image: Maypole Gardens can be found in the heart of Marazion town centre
Local people take enormous pride in the town. The Marazion in Bloom competition is hotly contested and each summer the town is resplendent in colour.
Image: Each summer, the town bursts with colour as the Marazion In Bloom competition is carried out

'Size isn't important'

Local councillor Richard Stokoe said that the town is home to big supporters of the Queen and planned celebrations alongside the city bid.

If the bid is successful next year, the town would be the smallest city and - at just 15 miles from Land's End - it would also become the most southern.

"Size isn't important," said Cllr Stokoe. "Marazion deserves to be celebrated and given city status."

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Despite its size, the historic town - about 26 miles west of Cornwall's only city, Truro - is packed full of heritage and overlooks the picturesque St Michael's Mount.

Cllr Stokoe admitted that the bid has received mixed reception from the close-knit residents and split the council, but supporters are focused on the economic boost that would come with becoming a city.

The town boasts two imposing and awe-inspiring churches. Marazion Methodist Church and All Saints Church. Alongside these, the is a Quakers friends meeting house and a further chapel on St Michael鈥檚 Mount.
Image: The town boasts two churches, Marazion Methodist Church and All Saints Church
Dating from the 18th century, The King鈥檚 Arms is believed to be one of the oldest brick buildings in Cornwall and sits in Market Square, the very heart of the town.
Image: Dating from the 18th century, The King's Arms is believed to be one of the oldest brick buildings in Cornwall

Why bid to become a city?

Research produced by the University of Reading showed that a city bid alone can boost an economy and stimulate inward investment.

"It costs nothing," Cllr Stokoe said. "Achieving city status would further raise the profile of Marazion, stimulate local businesses and prosper the community.

"It's a magical, magical, magical place. This could put us on the map."

Paul Elliott, the chair of Marazion's Chamber of Commerce, added: "More than anything, the people of Marazion are excited to share their beautiful town with the world and attract more visitors."

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