Cornish town with cobbled streets ranked second best in the UK
An iconic Cornish seaside town is as delightful at this time of year as it is during the summer. The autumnal hues of St Ives provide an ideal backdrop for cosy evenings in coastal pubs and breezy walks along the beach.
The town's streets, adorned with whitewashed fisherman cottages, lead to independent shops, lively bars, and art galleries, striking a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Cobbled lanes, classic fish and chip shops, and invigorating coastal path walks are available all year round.
According to OLGB's Holiday Entertainment Index, this charming Cornish town ranks second for families seeking a seaside staycation. One possible reason could be its unusually warm climate, offering some of the mildest winters and warmest summers in Britain and Northern Europe.
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The survey also reveals that it has a low annual rainfall of just 673mm and an average of only 97 rainy days per year, making it an excellent choice for shoulder season getaways.
St Ives, only surpassed by the Welsh town of Tenby in the survey, is a picturesque harbour town that promises a warm autumnal embrace, reports the Express.
Most visitors to this tranquil corner of the world come to bask in the sun and sand. With a splendid selection of four separate beaches within a stone's throw from the town, there's something for everyone.
According to the St Ives tourist website, each beach has its unique charm:
Porthmeor Beach
Porthmeor Beach, nestled between rocky headlands and overlooked by Tate St Ives, is a haven for beachgoers. It boasts a fantastic cafe, takeaway and bakery, and offers activities such as surfing and rockpool exploring, or simply lounging on the sand.
Porthgwidden Beach
Tucked under The Island, Porthgwidden Beach is a sandy cove lined with beach huts and home to a welcoming cafe. It's a delightful spot all year round, but it takes on a special, wild charm in winter when dogs are allowed to frolic freely.
Porthminster Beach
Porthminster Beach is the perfect family-friendly location. At low tide, its shallow waters are ideal for paddling, and there's plenty of sand for digging, building and ball games.
Plus, there are numerous eateries nearby for when hunger strikes.
Harbour Beach
Harbour Beach, the closest to the town, is a great place to hunt for sea glass at low tide. Grab an ice cream or fish and chips, lean against the wall, and enjoy a lovely al fresco meal by the seaside.
But it's not just the stunning coastline that makes St Ives a must-visit destination in the autumn months. The town also houses the Tate St Ives Gallery, which showcases a wealth of modern art, and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, where you can admire the iconic sculptures of the former resident artist.
The coastal town boasts a plethora of watersports activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking at Carbis Bay Beach. Additionally, hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the South West Coast Path to Godrevy Head for breathtaking coastal views, and boat trips to Seal Island, home to Atlantic grey seals, are also available.
The town is adorned with stunning period properties along the coastline, offering unique and charming accommodation options.
Trevose Harbour House stands out with its boutique interiors and five-star reviews on Tripadvisor, while the more traditional Harbour Hotel St Ives offers upscale resort vibes with an in-house spa and mesmerising views across the water.
Another popular choice is The Gannet Inn, boasting individually designed bedrooms and a trendy bar and restaurant.
A visit to the seaside wouldn't be complete without indulging in some fish and chips, and The Balancing Eel is one of the best chippies in town. Its huge portions and freshly caught local fish make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
For those seeking a cosy pint, The Sloop Inn, a historical pub on the harbour wall, offers a cosy fire and local ales. The Lifeboat Inn is another popular harbourside pub with cosy interiors and a menu packed with comforting food for those chilly days by the water.