ST IVES

Cornwall's Crown Jewels! St Ives is the most popular tourist destination in Cornwall and the perfect place to go for a bit of good old-fashioned British seaside tradition.

The bay of St Ives has more than it’s fair share of beaches. We recommend Porthminster or Porthmeor for water sports or a family day out. Porthgwidden or Carbis Bay are perfect for a more relaxing day. A walk around ‘The Island’ is a great way to see views of the town and beaches. The main harbour area and beach are bustling – look out for pesky seagulls trying to take a bite out of your pasty!

Because of it’s spectacular light St Ives has always attracted artists. It’s packed with galleries big and small plus a few independent theatres. You could spend a whole day on your own art trail. The September Festival has celebrated local arts since 1978 and is a great time to visit.

St Ives also boasts a superb collection of eateries and shops. Meander it’s narrow, winding streets to find our gorgeous hotspots. The St Ives Food & Drink Festival is also great and takes place in May.

It’s advisable to hop on the St Ives scenic branch line at Lelant Saltings to avoid the heavy traffic during peak season. Not just for convenience: the train hugs the coastline providing astounding views.

What are the best things to do in St Ives? Read on below. Download our St Ives Map or pick up a paper version from any of the following places.

THINGS TO DO

ST IVES SURF SCHOOL

Surf, Stand Up Paddleboard, Kayak and Coasteering activities for all ages and abilities. Learn to surf at one of Cornwall’s best surf schools. Beginner and intermediate lessons available from £20 and quality equipment hire from £6.

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ST IVES WATERSPORTS

Daily Kayak, Coasteering and Paddleboard activities available from the watersports centre on Porthminster beach. Single and double kayak hire available from £10 per hour. Come and explore St Ives from the sea!

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UNA LIDO & SPA

Take a dip in Una’s infinity pool or new outdoor heated lido, work up a sweat in the gym or indulge in a treatment at the spa. A relaxed and family friendly space in which to spend your day. float, unwind, and soak in the beautiful natural light.

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BAYSPACE

Bayspace is a coworking, meeting room and event space with an onsite cafe accessible to both members and the public. Perfectly positioned a stone's throw from St Ives bus and train stations, boasting panoramic views of the Harbour.

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BRYLUEN

Create your own unique scent and experience the art of candle making using soy wax and essential oil blends. With hands-on guidance you leave with not only a beautiful candle but an appreciation of the art of perfumery. Individuals & families welcome.

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FOOD & DRINK

YALLAH COFFEE

A light, bright harbourside café with takeaway kiosk. Seasonal produce with a focus on sustainability and interesting flavours. Local, organic food alongside their superb coffee, roasted nearby.

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ST IVES FARMERS MARKET

Quality vegetables, plants, organic meats, artisan breads, fresh local fish, savoury bakes & cakes, honey, cider and jams, alongside Caribbean and Indian foods. Meet and talk to the farmers and producers and enjoy a tune or two played by a local musician! Every Thursday until 2pm. A must for locals and visitors alike.

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BIER HUIS GRAND CAFE

Indulge in splendid surroundings while you experience the authentic dining and drinking rituals of Belgium, all delivered with a splash of the Cornish coast of course! (And don't forget your shoe, if you order the Kwak!)

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HARBOUR VIEW HOUSE

Overlooking the harbour of St Ives, Harbour View House serves cocktails & tacos and hosts live music on Saturday nights.

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HOST

Set in a former bank, luxuriate within the high ceilings, and carefully curated gallery walls. Delicious hand-stretched pizzas and sides prepared in a woodfired kitchen. Sunday lunch. Extensive cocktail list, craft beers & local spirits.

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UNA KITCHEN

Relaxed dining at the award-winning Una Kitchen, from rump steak to Cornish hake, woodfired pizzas to afternoon teas. The all-new, outdoor ‘CARGO’ is a poolside eatery like no other. You can also make the most of the outdoor Lido, indoor swimming pool and spa facilities.

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RICHARDS OF CORNWALL FARM SHOP

A working family farm with friendly on-site farm shop, providing fresh, seasonal fruit & vegetables, a variety of traditional free range meats & poultry, award-winning cheeses & dairy products and lots more specially selected artisan products! A must visit for a real taste of Cornwall.

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SHOPS & GALLERIES

EMJEMS

A friendly, family run business established in 1974, selling silver and gemstone jewellery, crystals, fossils, rare and unusual gemstones, tarot cards, and an extensive range of essential oils. Card readings every Tuesday.

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SLOOP STUDIOS

Escape the hustle and bustle. Wander through 12 art & craft workshops nestled around a beautiful courtyard. Each workshop produces a unique handmade range; stained glass, ceramics, paintings, prints, jewellery, sustainable fashion and driftwood pieces. Print and jewellery workshops also available.

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BLUE BRAMBLE GALLERY

An artistic haven of passion & creativity set in the Historic Round Market House building dating back to the Medieval times. Found at the end of the enchanting main cobbled street. It’s full of amazing & unique Arts and Craft, some quirky and some more traditional.

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SHARON MCSWINEY

Jewellery, metalwork & paintings inspired by the colours of Cornwall, nature & the sea. Textured & patinated metalwork wall art unique to St Ives created by Sharon McSwiney. Was once home to Ponckles Cat Gallery.

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ST IVES CERAMICS

Displayed in the gallery are works from local and leading national and international potters alongside a collection of 20th century master potters. Established in 1991 by potter John Bedding. Considered to be one of the principal ceramic galleries in the UK.

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SWEETLIME

A lifestyle store, with a global feel, Sweetlime offers a range of exclusive clothing, accessories and jewellery designed by the owner, Elspeth J. Walker as well as homewares and gifts.

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LEEL

Leel (from the Cornish ‘Local’) is a friendly new gallery with fine art, eco- jewellery, artisanal gifts and produce. Drop in a shell to have it cast in silver or visit the adjoining artisan takeaway cafe serving luxury hot chocolate, speciality coffee and organic slushies made with small batch vintage cordials.

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ILLUSTRATED LIVING

A curated selection of beautifully designed lighting, homewares, art, clothing, jewellery & gifts. Everything in the shop is selected for it’s quality and uniqueness. Buy once and buy well!

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3 FERNLEA TERRACE

Peruse an exciting array of quality mid-century furniture and Modern British Art including a huge collection of Terry Frost prints. Open by appointment only.

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ACCOMMODATION

HARBOUR VIEW HOUSE

Harbour View House is a beachy boutique hotel offering clean, natural and thoughtfully designed rooms overlooking the harbour of St Ives. Daily breakfast using fresh local ingredients.

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COHORT

Cohort offers exceptional budget accommodation in a unique Grade II listed building in the centre of St Ives. Dorm accommodation and private rooms. Ideal for school trips, families, independent travellers, walkers, surfers and cyclists.

You can also visit their specialist educational trips website here

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TREGENNA CASTLE

Tregenna Castle is a family friendly resort set in 72 acres of lush botanical gardens overlooking the picturesque town of St Ives. A choice of hotel rooms and self catering properties. The perfect choice for a family holiday or an ideal venue for your wedding.

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UNA

Stay in an architect-designed villa or timber framed lodge, each with their own private outdoor space and optional hot tub at the luxury Una Spa Resort.

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Any questions about St Ives? Ask Little Birdie