Visit West Cornwall

The jewel in the crown... loved for its superb beaches, narrow streets and flower-filled courtyards, its glittering sea and clear air, and for its friendly hospitable people.

The beaches of St Ives are its crowning glories.  Magnificent Porthmeor Beach on the town's western edge is famous for powerful surf, yet is ideal for non-surfers of all ages. The more sheltered Porthminster Beach on the town's eastern edge has perfect conditions for family groups.

Fishing no longer dominates the quays, but boats still fill the harbour and Smeaton's Pier is still the preserve of the town's fishing community. Fish are landed, nets mended and the spirit of Old St Ives is still tangible. The town's colourful heritage is distilled not only in its physical character but in great artistic traditions dating back to the 19th century when accomplished painters revelled in the clear accurate light, luminous colours and the vivid imagery of place and people - an artistic legacy exhibited in the splendid Tate Gallery above Porthmeor.

Add to all this a range of excellent restaurants and cafes catering for all tastes, traditional pubs, entertainment for all ages, a modern cinema, and a lively, friendly atmosphere and St. Ives becomes even more of a holiday delight.

The September Festival brings a feast of music, literature, theatre and art. Breton markets line the harbour in the summer and the Square Sail Fleet are often present. Throughout the season enjoy floral displays that have won more National and Regional wins and placings in Britain in Bloom than anywhere else in the UK.

A marvellously scenic branch railway line follows the coast here on its way between Penzance and St Ives.