ST IVES

Perching on the edge of a finger of land jutting out into the wild Atlantic Ocean, the town was once one of the busiest pilchard fishing harbours in the county. The fact that it is still a working fishing town to this day ensures it maintains its sea faring traditions, with the local lifeboat station taking pride of place on the harbour side, another symbol of the towns heritage and continuing service to sea farers. More recently though it has transformed itself into a chic destination where boutique meets the old fashioned British seaside, making it the perfect seaside escape for those seeking simple pleasures.

While away your holiday gazing out to sea, admiring the views of the boats bobbing in the harbour, lazing on the beach or strolling around the pretty streets which offer immeasurable opportunities to explore.  

At low tide an arc of golden sand is revealed, which fills up with families decked out in Cath Kidston enjoying picnics, whilst children skinny dip and seagulls squawk overhead. However if you want a beach that's there all day the beautiful Porthmeor unrivalled for its surfing reputation, is just around the corner. If you fancy a gentler relaxing beach experience Porthminster on the south side of the town offers a high standard of service and has a superb beachside cafe.

Since the late 1800’s West Cornwall has long attracted novelists and artists both nationally and internationally. Attracted by its famed clarity of light Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson and Naum Gabo arrived in 1939, and St Ives became internationally recognised as a centre of modern art. Tate St Ives, was opened in 1993 to celebrate and encourage a new generation of artists to flock to this little town, ensuring its modernist legacy thrived and continues to be as vibrant as ever.

Not to go unnoticed is the town’s latest eco friendly initiative, which will double up as living sculpture, paying homage to the creative excellence that the town is renowned for. A 40-metre bank constructed from bundles of Cornish willow is proposed to serve as a £10 million flood defence scheme, whilst creating an organic living structure that will evolve and grow over time.

So whether you fancy a coffee and cake, a traditional Cornish pasty, fish and chips on the harbour side, a cream tea for two or an intimate evening meal there’s a fantastic variety of tea rooms, pubs, cafes and restaurants to choose from and St Ives becomes even more of a delight. 

Illustration created by Anna Victoria  http://www.anna-victoria.co.uk