Top Attractions in St Ives

Treloyhan Manor towers above the rolling waves of St Ives Bay, bordering the South-West Coastal path, which guests can access from the garden of the Manor. From Treloyhan, the walk to St Ives is a 15 minute, all-down-hill meander with breathtaking views of the Godrevy lighthouse and surrounding coastline, or a 5-minute drive. St Ives boasts an array of attractions, spotlighted here, so that you can make the most of your stay, and explore one of Cornwall’s favorite coastal towns.

Learn about Barbara Hepworth’s life, exploring the home, studio, and garden, where she lived and worked until her death in 1975. Tickets should be purchased online from the Tate St Ives. Entry is free for visitors under the age of 18 as well as Tate members. Advance booking is recommended.

Overlooking Porthmeor Beach and the Atlantic Ocean is the Tate St Ives, which houses work by Marlow Moss, Patrick Heron, Naum Gabo, Barbara Hepworth, and many more artists whose captivating works have brought international attention to St Ives and West Cornwall. Tickets should be purchased online at the Tate.org, and advance booking is recommended. Entry is free for visitors under the age of 18 as well as Tate members.

Support local artisans whilst nurturing your creative side. Why not create your own luxury soy wax candle at Bryluen Botanicals, using pure and natural essential oils? A truly unique holiday keepsake. Workshops last for approximately 90 minutes. To book your place contact bryluenbotanicals@gmail.com or visit the Bryluen Botanicals website for more details.

Discover the breathtaking stretch of coastline between St Ives and St Erth, and witness the vista from a different perspective. Pause at St Erth, enjoying a warm drink at the station café, before re-embarking again. Trains run every 30 minutes between 10am-5pm and you can purchase tickets from the ticket office at St Ives Station or get e-tickets via trainline. Find the St Ives Bay timetable here.

Explore local Cornish businesses such as the St Ives Bookseller, Jam Industries, Atlantic Blankets, Tarquin’s, Johns Wine & Spirit Specialists, and many more...

The Tin Coast is the area around St Just, Pendeen, and Morvah. This remarkable stretch of coastline is steeped in history. Find out more about cycling in this magnificent part of Cornwall via the Tin Coast site and discover the Cornish Mining World Heritage site.

Explore the West Cornwall stretch of The South-West Coastal Path, discovering the dramatic granite cliffs and crumbling engine houses. Enjoy a longer walk from St Ives to Zennor, stopping at the award-winning Gurnard’s Head for lunch and a drink, before making the scenic journey back into St Ives. Alternatively, take the shorter, yet still breathtaking route towards Lelant, pausing for a warm drink and toasted sandwich at The Deli on the Carbis Bay Estate.

Learn to surf, paddleboard, or do a kayak tour of the coastline surrounding St Ives. St Ives Surf School offers five different levels of surfing lessons ranging from total beginners to more advanced classes, making this an ideal activity for all the family to get involved in. The Surf School is on the Blue Flag winning Porthmeor Beach, classes can be booked in advance on the Surf School website.

On offer at the Old Mill Stables is a range of activities; whether you yearn to go hacking across the Cornish countryside or desire to take some guided lessons during your break, horse riding is a lovely way to explore the magnificent landscapes surrounding St Ives. Advance booking is required and can be done via the Old Mill Stables Equestrian Centre website.

Discover what lies beneath the rolling blue waves of St Ives Bay. The Nemo boasts eight viewing panels and is one of the largest glass-bottomed vessels in the UK. The standard tour is 1h 15 minutes taking guests from St Ives Harbour to Godrevy Lighthouse. For those seeking an even greater adventure, consider either the Extended Sea Safari or Lands’s End Sea Safari, perfect for watching the sunset over the waves. Tours can be booked here.

Get acquainted with the Cornish country lanes and rural villages, without the stress of traffic and parking. Board the Atlantic Coaster from St Ives bus station, sit back and take in the views on the 1.25h trip around to Land’s End. If you purchase a day ticket, you can get on and off at your leisure, stopping in Zennor, Sennen, or Porthcurno for a spot of lunch before reembarking. Plan your journey here.

The West Cornwall Golf Club is the oldest course in Cornwall, founded in 1889. You can find the club located just outside the small village of Lelant, with views overlooking St Ives Bay and the Hayle Estuary. You do not need to be a member to enjoy the course, however visitors are encouraged to book in advance. Information about booking, and the club’s dress code can be found on the website.

Departing daily from St Ives Harbour is the Tiger Lilly Mackerel fishing experience which lasts 1h 30 minutes. This is a family-friendly activity, providing all equipment and life jackets, suitable for beginners and professionals. Find out more via the Tiger Lilly website.

Ocean Sports is located on the stunning Blue Flag Carbis Bay Beach, which is privately owned by the Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate. Book lessons, hire equipment including kayaks, stand up paddleboard’s, mega SUP’s, wetsuits, deck chairs and windbreaks. Pay by the hour and safely store your belongings at the sports center whilst you're in the water. Discover more here.