Things To Do
in Saint Ives
St Ives is a charming seaside town located in Cornwall, United Kingdom, known for its picturesque harbor and stunning beaches. The town is famous for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries showcasing local and international artists. St Ives also boasts a thriving seafood industry, offering delicious freshly caught fish and seafood to residents and visitors.
The town's narrow cobbled streets and beautiful views make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing coastal getaway.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Porthmeor Beach, enjoying the stunning views and fresh sea breeze. Grab a coffee from a nearby café as you soak in the morning sun.
Visit the serene Porthgwidden Beach for a relaxing lunch at a beachside eatery. Spend the afternoon swimming or sunbathing on the soft sands.
Stroll along the Towans Beach and watch the sunset over the horizon. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the fresh catch of the day.
Begin with a visit to the Tate St Ives to admire contemporary art with beautiful sea views. Take your time exploring the exhibits as they often feature local artists.
Head to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden to see her works in a stunning outdoor setting. The peaceful gardens are perfect for a midday break.
Wander around the town looking for quaint galleries and studios open late. Enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro, followed by live music or a quiet walk along the waterfront.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery
- Rich in art and culture, home to many galleries and artists
- Charming historic streets and architecture
- A variety of outdoor activities, including surfing and walking trails
- Vibrant community with numerous festivals and events
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Accommodation and living costs can be high
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities
- Mild maritime climate can lead to unpredictable weather
- Some amenities may be less accessible for those with limited mobility
Best Activities in Saint Ives
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Saint Ives is known for its beautiful beaches and surf-friendly waves, making it an ideal location for surfing. Various surf schools offer lessons for all skill levels.
Explore the stunning coastal paths around Saint Ives, which provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Cornish coastline.
Join a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Porthmeor Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and get some exercise.
Take advantage of the calm waters and rent a kayak or join a sailing excursion to explore the nearby islands and bays.
Visit nearby nature reserves or take a boat trip to spot seals, dolphins, and various seabirds in their natural habitat.
Participate in outdoor art workshops or craft sessions, which often take place in scenic locations around Saint Ives.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint Ives with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint Ives
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the town and coastline, also a great spot for sunset photography.
Features a rooftop cafe with stunning views of Porthmeor Beach and the surrounding area.
Provides picturesque views of the sculpture garden alongside the works of Barbara Hepworth.
Food in Saint Ives
Saint Ives Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pastry filled with beef, potatoes, swede, and onion. Best enjoyed at the Cornish Bakehouse.
Must-Try!
A historical dish featuring fish heads poking through the pastry, symbolizing a legendary event. Try this unique dish at The Balancing Eel.
Indulge in scones served with clotted cream, jam, and a pot of tea at The Searoom.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint Ives better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open every Thursday, this market offers a wide range of fresh local produce, including artisan cheeses, homemade preserves, and freshly baked bread.
Don't miss the annual street food festival where you can savor gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and international cuisines from various food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint Ives, as in the rest of the UK, politeness is highly valued. It’s customary to greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi' and to use 'please' and 'thank you' frequently. A smile goes a long way in making a positive impression.
The British take queuing very seriously. When waiting for services, such as at shops or public transport, always wait in line and do not attempt to cut in. Respecting the queue is a fundamental norm and demonstrates good manners.
Maintaining a low level of noise in public spaces is important in Saint Ives. It’s considered respectful to keep conversations at a reasonable volume, especially in cafes, restaurants, and on public transport. Being mindful of communal spaces enhances the local experience.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint Ives with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Ives
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint Ives, tipping practices generally reflect those in the broader United Kingdom. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included. For bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. Tipping taxi drivers is also expected, usually around 10%, and for hotel staff, a small tip for porters and housekeeping is appreciated.
Payment practices in Saint Ives are quite modern, with most establishments accepting credit and debit cards. Contactless payments are widely used and accepted. Cash is still accepted, although it's becoming less common for larger transactions. Some smaller businesses may prefer cash, so it's advisable to carry some for those situations. The use of mobile payment apps is also growing in popularity among locals and visitors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint Ives.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a lovely time to visit Saint Ives, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. The town is less crowded, making it a peaceful time to explore the beaches and coastal walks.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Saint Ives. The town comes alive with events, festivals, and bustling streets. The beaches are popular for sunbathing and water activities, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn brings beautiful golden landscapes and quieter streets to Saint Ives. The weather is still pleasant, and it's a great time for enjoying scenic walks and art galleries without the summer crowds.
Winter is the quietest time in Saint Ives, with fewer tourists and lower prices. While the weather can be chilly and rainy, it's a peaceful time to enjoy the town's charm, visit cozy pubs, and explore the dramatic coastal scenery.
Saint Ives at Night
Hiking in Saint Ives
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning coastal walk offering breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs, taking you from St Ives to the picturesque village of Zennor.
A scenic hike along the South West Coast Path, featuring beautiful beaches and panoramic views of St Ives Bay.
A tranquil park with a mix of woodlands and lakes, offering several winding trails for hikers of all levels.
A beautiful stretch of sand dunes and beach, perfect for walking and enjoying the natural scenery along the coastline.
A fantastic coastal walk with views of Godrevy lighthouse, featuring dunes, marshlands, and sandy beaches.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint Ives through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint Ives by plane.
The primary international airport serving London, the capital city of the UK, located approximately 250 miles southeast of Saint Ives.
An international airport serving Bristol and the surrounding region, located about 120 miles southeast of Saint Ives.
An international airport located near Exeter, Devon, approximately 70 miles southeast of Saint Ives.
The main airport serving Cornwall, located about 30 miles west of Saint Ives.
An international airport located near Southampton, approximately 150 miles southeast of Saint Ives.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Saint Ives, comprising the majority of the population with primarily Anglo-Saxon ancestry.
Includes individuals from other European countries or of non-British white ethnicity.
A demographic category for people with mixed heritage, often combining white and another ethnic background.
Comprises individuals from various Asian backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and others.
Represents a smaller demographic group within Saint Ives, including individuals of African or Caribbean descent.
Includes smaller populations such as those identifying as Middle Eastern or from other non-specified ethnic backgrounds.
The Soul of Saint Ives
Discover the essence of Saint Ives through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Saint Ives is known for its beautiful beaches, making it a popular spot for surfing enthusiasts.
The scenic harbor and coastal waters attract many sailing fans who enjoy both leisure sailing and competitive events.
Cricket is a traditional sport in the area, with local clubs and teams often playing matches during the summer months.
Football is widely played at various levels, with local teams representing Saint Ives in regional leagues.
Rugby has a strong community presence in Saint Ives, with clubs that engage both youth and adult players.
With beautiful scenery and numerous trails, cycling is a popular activity for both leisure and competitive cyclists.
There are several golf courses nearby, making golf a favored pastime for locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Ives.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Saint Ives is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. The Beach Restaurant and Porthmeor Beach Cafe are great options for these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a variety of gluten-free options at The Digey Food Room and Blas Burgerworks, which both prioritize using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint Ives with these cultural adventures.
