St Ives Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Cornwall in the southwestern part of England, St Ives is a charming town that exudes tranquility and artistic flair. With its picturesque beaches, vibrant art scene, and rich history, St Ives has become a beloved destination for visitors seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.
One of the main draws of St Ives is its breathtaking beaches. The town is blessed with several sandy stretches, including the renowned Porthminster Beach. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sand, Porthminster Beach offers the ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and even trying out water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking. For those seeking a more secluded experience, the nearby Porthmeor Beach boasts dramatic cliffs and rolling waves, making it a popular spot for surfers.
St Ives is also known for its thriving art scene, attracting artists and enthusiasts from all over the world. The town's artistic legacy can be traced back to the late 19th century when painters like J.M.W. Turner and Barbara Hepworth sought inspiration from its stunning landscapes. Today, St Ives is home to numerous art galleries and studios, showcasing a diverse range of artworks, from traditional to contemporary. The Tate St Ives, perched on a hill overlooking Porthmeor Beach, is a must-visit for art lovers, offering exhibitions that celebrate both local and international talent.
As you wander through the narrow cobbled streets of St Ives, you'll also discover its rich history. The town's origins date back to medieval times, and remnants of its past can still be seen in its historic buildings and charming architecture. The medieval St Ives Parish Church, with its impressive tower, is a prominent landmark that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural offerings, St Ives is also a haven for food lovers. The town's coastal location means that fresh seafood is a highlight on many menus. From traditional fish and chips enjoyed on the beach to upscale seafood restaurants serving locally caught delicacies, St Ives offers a delectable culinary experience for all tastes.
England
St Ives Attractions - What to See and Explore
St Ives offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Tate St Ives, St Ia's Church, Belgrave St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in St Ives by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in St Ives.
Culture
Tate St Ives
St IvesMuseum Art museum Modern art museum 
Barbara Hepworth Museum
St IvesMuseum Garden Art museum 
Saint Ives Society of Artists
St IvesMuseum Art gallery 
Penwith Gallery
St IvesMuseum Art gallery Shopping 
Barnoon Workshop
St IvesMuseum Art gallery
Other categories
MuseumArt gallerySt Ives – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of St Ives, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Eden Project (Par), Flambards Theme Park, Cheesewring (Bodmin).
Best Time To Visit St Ives
Learn when is the best time to travel to St Ives weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Ale
Ale is a type of beer brewed using a warm fermentation method, resulting in a sweet, full-bodied and fruity taste. Historically, the term referred to a drink brewed without hops. As with...
Type of beer
Stew
A stew is a combination of solid food ingredients that have been cooked in liquid and served in the resultant gravy. Ingredients in a stew can include any combination of vegetables and may...
Fishcake
A fishcake is a culinary dish consisting of filleted fish or other seafood minced or ground, mixed with a starchy food, and fried. Asian-style fishcakes usually contain fish with salt...
Food
Parkin
Parkin is a gingerbread cake traditionally made with oatmeal and black treacle, which originated in northern England. Often associated with Yorkshire, particularly the Leeds area, it is...
Sticky toffee pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is an English dessert consisting of a very moist sponge cake, covered in a toffee sauce and often served with a vanilla custard or vanilla ice-cream.
England