Artists have been drawn to St Ives for years, enticed by its subtle and romantic light. If you ask any artist whose taken home here they will say it’s because there’s something special about the light. The artistic nature of the town is evident, with museums, galleries and quirky art shops lining the laneways.

But St Ives is not just a town for artists. Surfers and food lovers are also drawn to this relaxed, outdoor living. St Ives, somewhat surprisingly has a great food scene. There is everything from beach bars, restaurants, fish & chips, ice cream shops, independent coffee shops, vegetarian cafes, bakeries and a wide selection of international cuisines.

Surfers have their pick of four stunning beaches close to the town, as well as a surf school for beginners. For more advanced surfers, the swell in winter can get pretty big. One of the most popular beaches for both families and surfers is Porthmeor beach. This has a stunning coastal backdrop and sits opposite the Tate gallery. Harbour beach and Porthminster Beach are also sheltered beaches, great for swimming.

Things to do in St Ives…

Barbara Hepworth Museum

This was actually Hepworth’s personal studio from 1949 until she died in 1975. The small space and beauty really lies in the garden, where her sculptures sit (most of which were placed by Hepworth herself). The tranquil setting has a tropical vibe lined with palm trees and the sun pushing it’s way through the leaves, hitting the sculptures in a perfect formation.

This is a very interesting visit, to find out more about Hepworth’s life and just to sit where she sat, and take in the beautiful setting. You can buy a combined ticket with the Tate gallery which will work out cheaper. I would recommend doing both!

St Ives Tate Gallery

I had no idea there was even a section of the Tate gallery in St Ives before my visit but it may even be better than the London one. If not just purely for the views from inside, that back onto the beach, through a giant glass window shaped in a semi circle.

The art as you might expect is pretty contemporary but there are some interesting works to be seen. The building has just been through a £20million refurbishment and some of the rooms and architecture are quite spectacular.

More on Cornwall: Kingsand and Cawsand: Undiscovered Cornwall

Soak up the sun on the Beach

There are no shortage of beautiful beaches here. On a hot sunny day, with the water turning a gorgeous turquoise colour, there’s no better way to relax then to head to the beach. The Harbour beach is basically in the town if you don’t want to walk much and is a hub for atmosphere. Beware of the seagulls though- they will pinch your lunch!

If you’ve come from the Tate, well, Porthmeor beach is just in front, along with the beach cafe. Art, beaches and food- what else do you need!

Explore the Cobbled Streets of St Ives

I loved just wandering around the backstreets and checking out the cute shops along the way. St Ives has some really pretty streets and quirky fisherman’s cottages, all adorned with tools lying outside ready to be used.

Flowers hang from baskets along the narrow streets that open up to hidden galleries, pretty boutiques and handmade craft shops. Fore street is supposed the be one of the prettiest but was super busy when I went, so for unspoilt photographs, head there early!

Where to get good coffee in St Ives:

St Ives is up and coming on the coffee scene with lots of independent coffee shops popping up. I happened to stumble across a small one man, hole in the wall type thing, serving coffee by Yallah coffee roasters. The guy said that this was the first day they were even open and the only place they are situated themselves (they provide beans for various cafes also).

The coffee was delicious and locally roasted- what a find. The farms they use are sustainable, environmentally friends, plus all takeaway cups are biodegradable. Be sure to check it out in front of the harbour beach.

Where to Eat in St Ives:

As I said at the top, there are many places to eat, from nicer restaurants to relaxed beach bars. Above the coffee place I just mentioned sits The Surf Shack- a shabby chic cafe with relaxed vibe.

There are tonnes of bakeries, cafes and diners to choose from. Head to either Fore street or along the harbour for a variety of choices.

Where to stay in St Ives:

There are plenty of accommodation options for all budgets, from hotels to budget hostels. If you have a car then getting a holiday cottage rental may work out good value for you. I had an Airbnb in Carbis Bay which is only a 15 min drive/train ride into St Ives. Staying just outside the main town may be cheaper also.

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Getting to St Ives:

Easily accessible by overnight trains from London Paddington, the Midlands and the North. You can also get a coach with National Express to Penzance and then hop on a local bus to St Ives. By car, St Ives is just off the A30 and the nearest airport is Newquay. For more info check out the official site.

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