Skip to content
Home » Caravan Holiday Ideas in the UK » Things to See in St Ives

Things to See in St Ives

    St Ives, the patron saint of holidays…

    St Ives is the jewel in the crown of Cornwall, and the beauty of a trip to this captivating town is that it’s a place of contrasts, with everything on offer, from beaches and a chilled-out café culture vibe to cutting-edge contemporary art and a whole host of fantastic water sports.

    So, no matter what kind of holiday you’re looking for, whether it’s a romantic break for two, a fun-filled family trip, or an action-packed group holiday, there is somethiBoscregeng for everyone in St Ives.

    Let’s explore the best of St Ives…

    Beaches to see in St Ives…

    You’ve come to the right place if you’re a beach lover, with not one but five fantastic beaches on offer in the St Ives area.

    Porthmeor is known for its surfing credentials, Porthminster is incredibly family-friendly, and Town Beach is lively and bustling.

    At the same time, Bamaluz is small but perfectly formed with Porthgwidden, a lovely sheltered beach.

    So, what are you waiting for? Pack a picnic, a bucket, and a spade, and look forward to lazy days at the beach.

    Art to see in St Ives…

    St Ives has been a hub for artists and photographers for many years thanks to its stunning landscape and the infamous quality of light in the area.

    Make sure you pay homage to the town’s artistic heritage with a visit to Tate St Ives, which showcases globally renowned artists like Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo, Marlow Moss, and Patrick Heron, who collectively have helped to put St Ives on the map, and which holds regular exhibitions by contemporary artists from all over the world.

    Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden

    The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is well worth a visit while on a trip to St Ives.

    The museum holds the largest collection of her works and sculptures and is situated in the home of her Trewyn Studio, which she bought in 1949, moved into in 1950, and lived until she died in 1975.

    The museum offers a fascinating insight into her life and allows visitors to see some of her best works in situ.

    Things for the family to see in St Ives…

    Activities For Kids in St Ives

    Animal farms and parks are a favourite thing to see in ST Ives for families | Image shows a young boy nose to nose with a brown goat. The boy is smiling with his eyes closed.
    Happy funny girl with a multicolored umbrella jumping on puddles in rubber boots and laughing

    You can’t beat a day at the farm to keep the children entertained.

    Not only can they get up close and personal with all manner of animals and maybe even get to feed and pet them, but this is a great opportunity for parents to tire out their little angels with woodland walks and indoor and outdoor play areas.

    Farm parks close to St Ives include:

    Other family attractions near St Ives include The Eden Project, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Michael’s Mount, Hayle Swimming Pool, Coast 2 Coast Karting, and Jubilee Pool.

    Wildlife to see in St Ives…

    Seal Island

    Seal island is a popular thing to see in St Ives for visitors | Image shows a close up of a grey seal with white snow and grey rocks in the background.

    If you want to go seal spotting, then take a boat to Seal Island, a small rocky island 3.5 miles west of St Ives. In addition to the native seals who live there, you might see sharks, dolphins, porpoises, or even a whale!

    To ensure you see a seal, visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, which rescues and rehabilitates more than 70 seal pups every year and is now home to a collection of puffins.

    Best way to see St Ives…

    St Erth to St Ives

    close up shot of a set of train tracks on a misty day. Train tracks fade into the mist which consumes the background.

    The only way to travel into the enchanting town of St Ives is by train, and it doesn’t get much better than the captivating train journey from St Erth to St Ives.

    This route offers some of the most outstanding views you’ll see anywhere and gives, without doubt, the most spectacular introduction to beautiful St Ives.

    St Ives is a treat for the eyes with its glorious traditional fishermen’s cottages and narrow cobbled streets, which jostle comfortably with gorgeous independent shops, boutiques, and galleries, as well as some of the finest eateries you’ll find anywhere. If you’re thinking of visiting, make sure you have a packed itinerary. Explore our blog on things to do in St Ives, and consider booking dog-friendly accommodation in the area.

    Book a Caravan Break in St Ives

    Praa Sands Holiday Park, Penzance

    Static caravan in Praa Sands Holiday Park, Penzance, St Ives, Cornwall

    Discover the charm of Cornwall from Praa Sands Holiday Park, just a stone’s throw from the vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and artistic treasures of St Ives. Book your escape today!

    River Valley Country Park

    Static caravan in River Valley Caravan Park in St Ives with a white wooden deck, positioned on a grassy hill under a clear blue sky. The caravan features large windows, a glass door, and outdoor seating, surrounded by well-maintained greenery and shrubs.

    Escape to River Valley Caravan Park where you’ll have easy access to St Ives’ stunning beaches, artistic heritage, and family-friendly attractions. Your perfect Cornish holiday awaits!