Key Facts about St Ives, England

With its golden sands, turquoise waters, and cobbled streets filled with art galleries, St Ives is one of England’s most enchanting seaside towns. Once a humble fishing village, it has blossomed into a cultural hub while retaining its Cornish charm. Whether exploring the Tate, strolling along the harbor, or enjoying a Cornish pasty by the sea, St Ives is a perfect blend of coastal beauty, creativity, and tradition.

9/11/20251 min read

Location

St Ives is a seaside town in Cornwall, southwest England, perched on the Atlantic coast about 25 miles from Land’s End.

Known for

Its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant arts scene. St Ives is famous for being home to the Tate St Ives gallery, artists’ studios, and a long tradition of fishing.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June–August): Perfect for beach days and festivals.
Spring (April–May): Milder weather, coastal blooms, and fewer tourists.
Autumn (September–October): Quieter but still pleasant for walking and exploring.
Winter (December–February): Peaceful, dramatic coastal views, and festive charm.

Local Language

English, with some Cornish heritage words still preserved.

Currency

British Pound (£).

Getting There

By train: Scenic branch line from St Erth to St Ives offers one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal rail journeys.
By car: About 5.5 hours from London, via the M5 and A30.
By air: Nearest airport is Newquay Cornwall Airport (about 1 hour away).
By bus/coach: National Express and local services connect St Ives with major cities.

Top Attractions

Tate St Ives: A modern art museum showcasing contemporary and Cornish art.
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden: Dedicated to the famous sculptor who lived and worked in St Ives.
St Ives Harbour & Wharf: Bustling with cafés, shops, and fishing boats.
Porthmeor Beach: Popular with surfers and families.
Porthminster Beach: Known for calm waters and its award-winning beach café.
Coastal Path Walks: Stunning trails offering views of Cornwall’s rugged coastline.

Local Specialties

Cornish pasty: A traditional pastry filled with meat and vegetables.
Cream tea: Fresh scones with clotted cream and jam (Cornish style: jam first, then cream).
Fresh seafood: Crab, lobster, and locally caught fish.
Cornish ice cream: Made with rich local cream.

Notable Events

St Ives September Festival: A two-week celebration of music, art, literature, and theatre.
New Year’s Eve in St Ives: Famous for its street parties and fancy dress.
Harbor Day & Food Festivals: Celebrating local seafood and culture.