12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in St Ives, England

St. Ives is one of the most beautiful small towns in England, and it packs a slew of interesting attractions within its tiny borders. Lying just north of Penzance on the Celtic Sea, its postcard-perfect landscape is a stunner. Slate roofs, colorful beach huts, golden sand, and turquoise waters make it a go-to Cornish destination reminiscent of an Amalfi coast village.

English vacationers are gobbling up holiday homes at an increasing rate. And who can blame them? This picturesque town has been deemed the “Best Seaside Town” multiple times, and boasts a bevy of fun things to do and places to visit.

St. Ives is home to tasty restaurants, pristine English beaches, eclectic shops, and a diverse arts scene featuring galleries filled with unique works by locals like Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo, and Ben Nicholson.

Plan your sightseeing in this stunning town with our list of the top attractions and things to do in St Ives.

1. Visit the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden

The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is housed at Trewyn Studio and Garden. This locale was the famed sculptor’s residence (and studio) from 1949 until her death in 1975. It’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in town.

Walking into this spectacular space is a fascinating experience. Giant sculptures (the largest group of her works to be on permanent display) stand stoically in an immaculate and intricate garden. This is perhaps the best part of the museum and shouldn’t be missed.

While outstanding under the sun’s bright rays, the sculptures and varied vegetation come to life in a different, yet still remarkable way during a downpour. So, bring an umbrella just in case.

Wandering through the house and studio brings the artist back to life; visitors learn about her influences and how her sculpting changed with time. Crippled by arthritis and cancer, Hepworth had to find different ways to create her art.

Insider’s tip: Since 1980, the museum has been owned and run by Tate. Add this on to your admission ticket for the Tate Museum (more on that attraction below) to save a bit on your entrance fees.

Location: Barnoon Hill, St Ives

2. Walk the South West Coast Path National Trail-Godrevy Head

What do cliffs, sandy beaches, and a cove filled with seals have in common? They’re all accessible from the South West Coast Path National Trail. So, too, is a clear view of Godrevy Island Lighthouse, thought to be Virginia Woolf’s inspiration for To the Lighthouse.

This path spans the South West peninsula coastline, along a whopping 1,013 kilometers from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The Godrevy Head walk covers a mere 0.6 miles of this massive expanse while providing hikers with incredible views across St Ives Bay.

It’s short and easy, with only one small and gentle climb, which makes it a perfect walk for families. There is a stile, though, which can present a challenge for those with strollers or wheelchairs.

The path begins at the National Trust car park at Godrevy Point, which is open from Easter to the end of October. Those looking to hike outside of these dates can park at the Gwithian Towans car park, which is open year-round.

Insider’s Tip: Spring is the best time to visit, when the wildflowers are in full bloom and fulmars begin to nest in the cliffs.

Address: Godrevy Head Car Park, St Ives

3. Lounge on Porthminster Beach

While most don’t consider England a beach destination, this rainy isle boasts lovely beaches, especially in Cornwall. St Ives’ Porthminster Beach is one of the best.

A golden crescent of sand backed by towering palm trees gives this strand a tropical feel not present on other English beaches (we’re looking at you, rocky Brighton Beach). It also provides a beautiful view of the Godrevy Lighthouse across the sparkling bay.

Another plus: Cornwall boasts milder weather, making its climate ideal for a quiet day spent frolicking seaside. No wonder hitting the beach is one of the best things to do in St Ives.

This family-friendly beach is located a short walk from the center of town and boasts safe, calm waters and an 18-hole mini putt course. Plenty of cafés and restaurants are nearby, making it easy to spend a full day at this lovely spot.

Insider’s Tip: Lifeguards are on duty from mid-May to the end of September, so it’s best to visit then, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

4. Build a Sandcastle on Porthmeor Beach

This small, sandy beauty is definitely worth a stop. A mere half-mile in length, Porthmeor is one of the most popular beaches in St Ives. In addition to the soft, firm sand and rolling waves that make every beach worth visiting, Porthmeor features a bevy of tasty cafés and restaurants nearby.

Grab some takeout food for a picnic and hunker down to watch surfers frolic in the waves. When you’ve had enough sun, head into town for some retail therapy or treat your inner artist to a visit to the Tate St Ives, which backs the beach.

Another plus: Porthmeor was given a 2022 Blue Flag Award for its impeccable water quality, safety, and devotion to environmental management and education. It’s one of only seven beaches in Cornwall to receive the prestigious title.

Lifeguards are on duty from late March to the end of October.

Insider’s Tip: Plan a “wind break” every now and then. The gusts can whip up when you’re least expecting them. The perfect solution: a tapas respite in the nearby Porthmeor Beach Café. The marinated olives, grilled halloumi, and chickpea dahl are delish!

5. Cruise along St Ives Bay

Most who visit Cornwall do so in hopes of eschewing loud and busy tourist attractions. Vacationers to England’s southeast coast come here to relax and soak up the incredible nature it has become famous for.

St Ives Bay offers them the most stellar natural landscape. Close to town, the crescent-shaped bay is lined by charming homes, hotels, shops, and restaurants. It’s best to appreciate the area by boat, and taking a cruise is one of the best things to do in St. Ives.

As you travel farther away, however, this six-mile expanse of soft golden sand stretches past coastal dunes, the quiet Porthkidney Sands, and the beautiful Gwithian beach. The bay extends from St Ives in the west to Godrevy Head in the east.

In addition to providing great waves for surfing and plenty of spots to practice the latest in sandcastle designs, St Ives Bay is home to a diverse collection of birds. Plan on adding binoculars and a good camera to your packing list.

Insider’s Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for seals. They love to hang out near fishing boats in the harbor.

6. Take the Kids Swimming at Porthgwidden Beach

Colorful huts line Porthgwidden beach, adding to its supreme holiday vibe. The crystal-clear water and super fine sand help add to its seaside charm. Due to its beauty and calm nature, Porthgwidden Beach is one of the best attractions in St. Ives.

A family-friendly gem, this beach boasts smaller waves, as it’s more sheltered than some of the other, larger strands in the area. On a windy day, though, you’ll still feel the breeze.

Porthgwidden is located close to St Ives Harbour, with many cute shops and restaurants an easy walk away. There are plenty of concessions to choose from, so you won’t need to worry about where to buy all those things you forgot (like sunblock and a hat). We suggest renting a deck chair while you’re here. They always make a beach visit more enjoyable.

Insider’s Tip: The bathrooms are up a hill, which may be difficult to reach for those who are less able.

7. Board a Boat to Seal Island

Taking a boat trip to nearby Seal Island is one of the top things to do in St Ives. Also known as the Western Carracks (Cornish for “rocks”), Seal Island is the largest of a few rugged isles located just three and a half miles west of St Ives.

In addition to viewing the island’s rocky shores, boat cruise visitors are almost guaranteed to spot one of the Grey Atlantic seals that call this area home. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a basking shark, and see dolphins jumping nearby.

Multiple companies offer cruises to Seal Island, so you’ll have your pick of providers. Many of the tours include a trip around the Godrevy Lighthouse (as long as the weather cooperates), and some allow fishing as well.

8. Take the Footpath to The Island

Technically, the Island isn’t really an island at all. It’s more of a grassy peninsula connected to St Ives by a footpath that can be accessed easily from Porthmeor Beach, Porthgwidden Beach, and off Island Road in the town center.

Also known as Pendinas (a.k.a. fortified headland), this “island” is a popular attraction in St Ives for bird-watchers and other nature enthusiasts, as well as beach lovers and walkers. Once the site of a promontory fort, the Island offers remarkable views of Porthmeor Beach and St Ives Bay. This rugged marvel is also home to a bevy of wild and wonderful creatures.

St. Nicholas Chapel sits at its highest point, overlooking the area. It dates to the 15th century and has played multiple roles (as a church and a lookout post, for instance) since then.

The coast guard have a lookout on the island that was built in the 1940s. Today, volunteers work here to monitor the sea and weather conditions throughout the year, as well as to keep an eye on the area wildlife.

9. Eat Ice Cream at Carbis Bay Beach

Owned by the Carbis Bay Estate, this pristine Blue Flag beach is located about a mile from the center of St Ives in Carbis Bay.

Spanning a luxurious 25 acres, the sand here is so plush, you won’t need to wear sandals. Luckily, the hotel allows non-guests to enjoy this sliver of paradise. It’s conveniently located a short walk from the Carbis Bay train station, making it a popular place for visitors from nearby towns. Public parking is limited, at the top of a hill, and can be expensive, making the train a great option.

The usual beach necessities are available for rent-from stand up paddleboards to deck chairs. And there are plenty of nearby kiosks and a café selling treats. No beach visit would be complete without ice cream, and the town of St Ives knows it! You won’t be lacking for access to this tasty fare.

With easy water access to the calm, relatively sheltered sea, Carbis Bay Beach is an optimal spot for those traveling with kids.

Insider’s Tip: Prolong your beach visit with a stay at the Carbis Bay Estate . Built in the late 1890s, the rooms in this historic English beach resort are comfortable and elegant with modern décor and amenities. Many feature deep soaking tubs set before a window view so gorgeous, you’ll want to soak until your toes have pruned.

The Kids’ Club will keep youngsters happily engaged while their parents enjoy a relaxing treatment at C Bay Spa, a float in the pool, or a romantic meal at one of the multiple on-site restaurants.

Address: Beach Road, St Ives

10. Hang Ten at Gwithian Beach

Yet another beach tops the list of things to do in St Ives. We told you Cornwall was known for its beaches! Technically, Gwithian Beach isn’t located in St Ives. It sits along the St Ives Bay, a short drive east of town, between Hayle and Godrevy.

This beach is a surfer’s paradise. Sheep Dips, as the main surfing spot is known, boasts warm water (when compared to the Atlantic) and large waves. Being slightly sheltered in the bay, the waves at this shore are often a better size for beginners.

Body boarders and kite surfers are also big fans of Gwithian’s surf, spotting the sea with their brightly colored swimsuits and boards. The safest time to partake in these water activities is from early May to the end of September, when lifeguards are on duty. They’re also employed during Easter holidays and on weekends in October.

Insider’s Tip: Arrive early, before the tide comes in, as surfing here is one of the best things to do in St Ives, so the beach gets busy. Kids will love searching through tide pools to see crabs, starfish, and other marine life up close.

11. Get Inspired at the Tate Gallery St Ives

You can’t beat the view from the Tate St Ives, which sits on the shores of Porthmeor Beach. That said, the effervescent blue hues of the Atlantic will pale in comparison to some of the impressive works on display in this gallery, which is owned and operated by Tate.

Don’t expect to see the likes of Degas or da Vinci at this modern locale. Instead, the Tate St Ives features works by 20^th-century artists with strong ties to the town-all have either lived or worked in St Ives.

Wandering through the vast rooms, you’ll be introduced to works by the likes of Alfred Wallis, Ben Nicholson, and Barbara Hepworth. Opt for a guided tour if you’re not up on modern art, the guides make learning fun and interesting.

Have kids in tow? Great. They are encouraged to be as they are, noisy and curious. There are tons of fun things for them to do, including scavenger hunts, exciting events, and doodling in a sketchbook. Ask about the Adventurers Town Trail, a map that leads kids and their parents to artistic landmarks, including a hidden garden, in town.

Insider’s Tip: Make time for a stop in the rooftop café to enjoy magnificent views and tasty fare. The scones and tea won’t disappoint.

Address: Porthmeor Beach, St Ives, Cornwall

12. Enjoy a Tasty Cornish Cream Tea

Having afternoon tea is one of the most enjoyable English pastimes. Traditionally served with a freshly baked scone, cream tea is pretty much as it sounds: tea, with cream added. Once your scone is served, it is customary to top it with jam before adding clotted cream. In Devon, it’s the other way around.

As the scone melts in your mouth, enjoy another sip of tea while planning the next stop on your St Ives adventure. Being such a popular treat, there are multiple cafés offering a proper Cornish Cream Tea in St. Ives.

Among them is the Porthmeor Beach Café (a stunning beachside view accompanies each tea and scone),

Where to Stay in St Ives for Sightseeing

St Ives isn’t dripping with luxury hotels like other seaside escapes. Instead, this coastal gem boasts a slew of gorgeous, plush hotels that won’t break the bank. Want to rest your weary feet in a comfy hotel with great service, views, and food? Consider these charming hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campsites to help enhance your stay.

Luxury & Mid-Range Hotels:

• With its own private 25-acre Blue Flag beach, private beach lodges, and an award-winning spa, the Carbis Bay Estate transports guests into the lap of luxury. The hotel also boasts four excellent restaurants, making it hard to justify leaving the premises. It’s a four-star resort with a reasonable price tag.
• Affordable luxury is also within reach at the recently updated St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa . The beds are uber-comfy, the views of the bay are spectacular, and Porthminster beach is just a few steps away. Add top-rated restaurants, a fabulous spa, and a pool to this, and you’ve found yourself a great place to rest your head.
• Primrose House , a much smaller mid-range option is located mere steps from Porthminster beach and about a five-minute walk from town. This boutique B&B offers nine rooms, great breakfasts, and on-site parking.

Budget Hotels:

• The Western Hotel has it all: a good price, great location (in the heart of town), and comfortable rooms. Don’t miss the delicious breakfast.
• Looking to be even closer to the impressive natural landscape? Camping in Cornwall is an unbeatable experience, especially when you stay at Lower Penderleath Farm Hostel . Bring your own tent and get set for a fabulous time in this beautiful spot. This campsite offers clean and modern toilets and showers, a fridge and freezer, plus a room for washing dishes.

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in St Ives, England

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