Stays in St Ives
St Ives is a coastal town in Cornwall, England, known for its sandy beaches, artistic heritage, and narrow streets. It has been a favourite destination for artists since the late 19th century, when the railway arrived and made the town accessible to painters seeking its unique light. Today, the town…
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About St Ives
The town centre is a maze of cobbled lanes lined with independent shops, galleries, and cafes. The harbour is the focal point, with fishing boats and a sandy beach. Four beaches—Porthmeor, Porthgwidden, Porthminster, and the Harbour Beach—offer different characters, from surfing at Porthmeor to calm family swimming at Porthminster. The South West Coast Path passes through St Ives, providing walks with views of the rugged coastline.
St Ives has a wide range of places to stay, from luxury hotels to small guesthouses. Our site lists 29 hotels, with a mix of 5-star, 4-star, and 3-star properties. Guest reviews average 4.5 out of 5, reflecting high satisfaction. Whether you seek a sea view or a quiet street, St Ives offers a memorable stay.
Where to stay in St Ives
Harbour and Town Centre. Stay steps from the harbour, beaches, and shops. This area is convenient for exploring on foot and has many restaurants and galleries.
Porthmeor Beach. Facing the Atlantic, this area is popular with surfers and near the Tate St Ives. It offers dramatic sea views and a relaxed vibe.
Porthminster Beach. A sheltered bay with calm waters, ideal for families. The beach is close to the railway station and has a few hotels with sea views.
Carbis Bay. A quieter neighbouring village with its own beach and railway station. It is a short train ride or coastal walk from St Ives.
Getting there and around
St Ives is in Cornwall, about 300 miles from London and 5 miles from Penzance. The nearest airport is Newquay, about 30 miles away. By train, the St Erth station connects to the main line from London Paddington; from there, the scenic St Ives Bay Line takes about 15 minutes. By car, use the A30 and then the A3074; parking in town is limited, so use the park-and-ride at Lelant or the station car park. Within St Ives, most attractions are within walking distance. Local buses connect to nearby towns, and the South West Coast Path offers walking routes.
When to go
The best time to visit St Ives is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the beaches are at their best. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, with school holidays and festivals. May, June, and September offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds. Winter is quieter, but many attractions have reduced hours. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, so pack for changeable weather.
Questions, answered
What is St Ives known for?
St Ives is known for its beaches, art scene, and the Tate St Ives gallery. It is also famous for its fishing harbour and narrow streets.
How do I get to St Ives?
You can reach St Ives by train via St Erth, by car on the A30, or by bus from nearby towns. The nearest airport is Newquay.
Are there beaches in St Ives?
Yes, St Ives has several beaches, including Porthmeor, Porthgwidden, Porthminster, and the Harbour Beach. Each has its own character.
What is the best time to visit St Ives?
Late spring to early autumn is ideal, with mild weather and full amenities. Summer is the busiest season.
Is St Ives walkable?
Yes, the town centre is compact and most attractions are within walking distance. Be prepared for steep streets.
Where can I stay in St Ives?
There are many hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering options. Popular areas include the harbour, Porthmeor, and Porthminster.