The small town of St. Ives is located far in the south of England. More precisely, in the county of Cornwall. With its approximately 11,000 inhabitants, St. Ives is not one of the largest cities in England, but can offer a good portion of variety. Because if you only know the city as the setting for the popular novel series by Rosamunde Pilcher, you will be surprised how much variety this small town brings with it. Whether culture, varied landscapes or culinary delights, St. Ives offers the right pastime for every holidaymaker.
Art and culture to watch
What once began as a small artists’ colony is now a hub of the English art scene. Not surprising, after all, galleries and studios of various artists are bustling all over the city. St. Ives has nevertheless retained the characteristic charm of a small town, and that makes for even more sympathy. Artists everywhere invite visitors to visit their studios or attract galleries with their respective exhibitions.
Those who prefer to get to know the city’s decades-long tradition of handicrafts via a museum will also get their money’s worth. There are numerous museums in St Ives itself, with many different art styles and techniques represented. In the “St. Ives Ceramics”, for example, old masters of regional pottery can be admired, while in the “Salthouse Gallery” you can admire abstract paintings. So there is something for every taste.
St. Ives: The Caribbean of England
The landscape around St. Ives may not really fit in with the rest of the island’s rather cool and barren land. Because in St. Ives, visitors can expect white, extensive sandy beaches, turquoise blue sea and a distinctive floral landscape. Suitable weather included. Finally, St. Ives lures with a rather unusual weather for England; here there are almost Mediterranean temperatures, with average low rainfall. It is not for nothing that the city is a popular destination, not only for tourists. Locals also like to spend their days off here. If you are now afraid of overcrowded beaches, you can breathe a sigh of relief. The landscape around the city is extensive and the beaches stretch far along the coast. Perfect for enjoying the sunset in secluded coves or exploring the countryside on winding paths around the coast. Hiking fans in particular get their money’s worth here.
If you want to combine scenic exploration with history and local knowledge, you will find it twice in St. Ives. The countryside around St Ives is teeming with prehistoric sights. For example, there is the “Mên-an-Tol”. A megalithic formation that is said to be between 3000 and 4000 years old. The exact origin, as well as its use, has not yet been conclusively clarified. Another popular photo motif is the nearby “Man ́s Head”. The resemblance to a man’s head gave this rocky outcrop its name. In addition to the photographic aspect, you also have a wonderful view over the sea and the beaches.
If you want to go even higher, a visit to “Godvrey Head” is recommended. Godvrey Head is a lighthouse located at the eastern end of St Ives Bay. Here you have an unobstructed view of the sea and the landscape, which reaches far inland.
The cuisine: Rustic and delicious
After sporting activities and cultural events, refreshments are of course not to be missed. Here, too, the city can score points. Within the old town there are many winding alleys that are home to romantic and cozy cafés. It is precisely here that the rustic charm has been preserved. The hearty “English breakfast” is particularly recommended and provides a perfect start to the upcoming exploration of the city and its people. On the other hand, if you like it more rustic, you are in good hands in one of the numerous pubs. Nightlife is very important here. Several pubs entice you with regional beer specialties and exquisite whiskeys. A pleasure especially for connoisseurs, because tastings often take place here, although a reservation is usually required. What can be enjoyed without a reservation, on the other hand, is the country’s typical live music, which can be heard in many pubs at a late hour.
If you want to devote yourself entirely to regional cuisine, you will find your happiness on the beach. Here, the whole richness of the sea awaits the visitor on the menu. Whether shrimps, crabs or fish, everything is caught nearby and processed into regional specialties. If you want to get your hands on your own lunch, you can do so. From the harbour there are guided boat and fishing tours. After a (self-caught) lunch, a visit to the beach promenade is worthwhile. Numerous shops have settled here. From small boutiques to antique shops, you will find what you are looking for here.
