St Ives

One of Cornwall’s most famous tourism hotspots, the rugged beauty of the coastal town of St Ives has captured the hearts and imaginations of many artists over the years.

The town itself features numerous galleries and exhibitions, including displays at the Tate St Ives which exhibits work from contemporary British artists with links to the local area. Visitors can also take a trip to Leach Pottery and explore the vast range of ceramic arts on display.

The St Ives events calendar runs throughout the year and features many Cornish traditions such as Feast Day in February, which celebrates the traditional sport of hurling, as well as the town’s lively May Day festival which draws in crowds from Cornwall and beyond.

Foodies and real-ale lovers can taste the local cuisine and sample Cornish ales and ciders during the annual St Ives Food and Drink Festival which takes place on Porthminster Beach, and St Ives Brewery’s Beer and Cider Festival which happens in August each year.

Art and music lovers should not miss the St Ives Literature Festival each May, an eight-day event featuring performances from writers and poets, and the popular St Ives September Festival which attracts music artists from across the globe, performing in a number of unique venues such as the historic St Ives Guildhall, a concert hall and venue located in the heart of the town.

Bursting with culture, tradition and natural beauty, St Ives is so much more than just a holiday destination.