St Ives is one of Cornwall's most popular holiday destinations known for its superb beaches, food and famous art galleries.
As the tide rolls out and reveals the golden sandy beach below St Ives Harbour, the sunbathers, swimmers and sandcastles roll in. You won’t go short of ice creams, fish and chips and hot pasties here – this is one of Cornwall’s top holiday destinations and it’s best to visit off season if you want a chance of getting some peace and quiet. It’s not hard to see why – the harbour front is conveniently located at the centre edge of St Ives and surrounded by its undeniably picturesque cluster of cobbled streets lined with shops, art galleries, cafés and slate roofed fishers’ cottages.
Once a busy pilchard harbour and still a working port to this day, you can watch local fishermen landing their daily catches of fresh mackerel and seabass from the beach and the town’s Lifeboat Station, which has operated for over 100 years. The Lifeboat Station is open to the visitors during the summer season.
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- Carpark (Charges apply)
- Public Toilets
- Cafés (Open all year)
- Shops
- Restaurants
- Hazard: Tides (Rising / Falling)
- Hazard: Strong currents
- Lifeguards (Summer only)
- Dogs allowed (All year)
- 5 minute walk from carpark
History of St Ives
St Ives has a long and storied history, originally a fishing village with a strong maritime heritage. The town began to grow as a tourist destination in the 19th century, spurred by the arrival of the railway, which made it more accessible to visitors from across the UK. By the early 20th century, St Ives had become a hub for artists, drawn by the stunning natural light and beautiful coastal landscapes. This led to the establishment of the St Ives School, an influential art movement that included prominent figures such as Ben Nicholson and Barbara Hepworth. Today, St Ives remains an artistic centre, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing local and international talent. The town continues to celebrate its fishing heritage, while embracing its role as one of Cornwall’s premier cultural and tourist destinations.
Travel / Parking information for St Ives
Directions to St Ives
From the A30, take the A3074 exit towards St Ives. The town is well-signposted, and the route includes a scenic drive through the Cornish countryside. St Ives is also accessible by train, with a branch line from St Erth offering a short, scenic journey directly into the town.
Parking for St Ives
St Ives has several pay-and-display car parks, including the Park Avenue and Trenwith car parks, though spaces can be limited, especially during peak season. The town operates a park-and-ride service from Lelant Saltings, providing a convenient alternative with a short train ride into St Ives. Arriving early is recommended, as parking fills up quickly, particularly in the summer months.