St Ives town is built on a narrow peninsula that juts out into the Altantic. With sandy beaches on both sides of the town, a maze of quaint cobbled streets lined with fishermen’s cottages and a rich artistic heritage – you will be spoilt for choice when visiting the town.
There are four main beaches within easy walking distance of the town – each with it own different character.
St Ives began life as a typical fishing town, growing around the pilchard trade. But in the 1800s, St Ives saw an influx of artists settling in the town – including JMW Turner – who wanted to paint the
The town began life as a small fishing town, growing around the pilchard trade.
However, in the early 20th century, a group of artists and writers descended on St Ives – captured by the surrounding dramatic landscapes and ever-changing light of the seaside town. The St Ives School was established and quickly became a community of revolutionary thinkers making significant contributions to the story of British Modern art.
Barbara Hepworth and other artists visited St Ives. Hepworth created many sculptures that are now exhibited in her sculpture garden, along with the house where she tragically died in a fire in 1975.
In 1877, Great Western Railway extended the line from London, which meant tourism soared. The St Erth to St Ives rail route is still held up as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country.
Today, St Ives is still a tourist hotspot. The harbour is dotted with chic eateries and seaside cafes – but if a spot of shopping is in order, walk up into the town and you will find historic cobbled streets and lovely boutique shops.
