Cornwall is one of England’s most beautiful cities and has many hidden gems. St Ives, just north of Penzance on the Celtic Sea, is absolutely picturesque with its slate roofs, lively beach houses, golden beaches and blue waters and has become a popular Cornish tourist destination akin to an Amalfi coast town. In recent years St Ives has become an increasingly popular tourist destination thanks to its busy tavernas, fading beaches, blinding lights and architectural splendor everywhere people look.
The settlement is located on a tiny peninsula surrounded by sandy beaches. A network of tragically gorgeous cobblestone streets ringing the picturesque harbor is dotted with fishermen’s cottages. And let’s not forget, St Ives also has a thriving arts scene, honored by a wide range of galleries, from the humble to the world-renowned. If tourists are still unsure, let’s highlight some of the area’s best features.
Unmissable attractions in St Ives
The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
The Trewyn Studio and Garden is home to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. From 1949 until her death in 1975, this place served as both the living and working place of the renowned sculptor. In addition, it is among the busiest tourist destinations in the city.
It is an exciting feeling to enter this magnificent space. Huge sculptures stand unmoved in a pristine and exquisite garden. This perhaps the best exhibit in the museum should not be overlooked.
When it rains, the sculptures and diverse vegetation come to life in a unique but no less impressive way than when the sun is shining. The artist comes to life as visitors explore the home and workshop; They discover their inspirations and how their sculpture has evolved over time.
Tate Gallery St Ives
Tate St Ives on the sandy Porthmeor Beach offers an unbeatable vantage point. However, compared to many of the spectacular pieces on display at this Tate-managed and operated museum, the sparkling blues of the ocean will be insignificant.
Visitors shouldn’t expect to see artists like da Vinci or Degas in this urban space. Instead, Tate St Ives exhibits the work of 20th-century artists who have significant connections to the community, all of whom have either worked or lived in St Ives. People will come across pieces by artists such as Alfred Wallis, Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson as they explore the grand chambers.
Porthgwidden Beach
Porthgwidden beach has a great holiday vibe due to the colorful cottages that flank it. The attractiveness of the beach is enhanced by the crystal clear sea and fine sand. The beach is one of the top tourist destinations in St Ives due to its charm and tranquil atmosphere.
Popular with families, this beach benefits from fewer waves as it is more sheltered than many other larger beaches in the region. However, on a windy day, people will still feel the wind. Many charming shops and restaurants are conveniently located next to Porthgwidden.
Porthminster Beach
Although most people don’t think of England as a seaside resort, this wet island has some superb beaches, particularly in Cornwall. Another beautiful beach in Cornwall is Porthminster Beach in St Ives.
This stretch of beach has a distinctly tropical vibe not found on any other English coast, thanks to a strip of golden sand flanked by tall palm trees. In addition, Godrevy Lighthouse can be seen beautifully across the sparkling bay.
St Ives Bay
Most people who travel to Cornwall do so with the intention of avoiding crowded, noisy tourist attractions. Visitors to the south east coast of England visit this area to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery that has attracted most of the attention.
The best natural environment is available at St Ives Bay as it is one of the most beautiful beaches in England. The crescent-shaped harbor is close to town and is lined with quaint residences, hotels, shops and restaurants. Among the top things to do in St Ives Bay is a cruise, which is the ideal way to fully experience the place.
However, as visitors venture further afield, this six-mile strip of soft, golden sands continues past peaceful Porthkidney Sands and the stunning Gwithian coastline.
St. Ives Bay is also home to a great variety of birds, along with excellent waves for surfing and several places to practice the latest sandcastle ideas. Consider adding binoculars and a quality camera to the list of essentials.
Eat, drink and fill up
The Porthminster Cafe
Beautiful coastal views of the azure waters and white sandy beaches can be seen from the Porthminster Cafe. In Porthminster, fish is the main dish and people can enjoy some of the best seafood that Cornwall’s oceans have to offer. Some of the dishes that have appeared on the menu include monkfish curry, grilled lobster and Cornish crab linguine.
Blow civic works
One of the community’s best kept gems is Blas Burgerworks. Every component is locally sourced, from the pies and breads to the sauces and fries. A variety of toppings will be available with delicious 6-ounce patties. The truffle burger is delicious when served with garlic aioli and Cornish blue cheese.
A delicious pudding selection is also available at Blas Burgerworks. The Salted Caramel Banana Split with whipped cream rounds off the meal perfectly.
The Sloop Inn
In the summer, visitors often meet guests enjoying beer and the beauty of the sea at the Sloop Inn, a well-known and popular landmark overlooking St Ives Harbour. A popular spot for a pub lunch, Sunday roast or hearty dinner, The Sloop offers delicious food.
Visitors can soothe their hearts at the same time with its golden sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, making St Ives the ideal coastal holiday destination.