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4 Available Tour Excursions in St Ives
Explore the hidden Cornwall. Experience the smaller roads and the quieter places in Cornwall as well as seeing the more popular attractions. Our guides will show you firsthand the inner beauty and charm of this magical county.
Price: $1,104.87
Duration: 8 hours
We will take our customers to places that most tour companies won’t. If Carlsberg did tours they’d pick Meneage Tours!
Price: $1,035.81
Duration: 8 hours
Seamlessly navigate your travels with our Private Chauffeur Service, available 24/7 for local and nationwide airport transfers, and cruise and ferry terminals. Your journey begins with a warm welcome from your professional driver, who will assist you with your luggage and ensure a smooth ride to your destination. Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle while appreciating the scenic views along the way. Perfect for business travelers, families, and anyone seeking convenience and reliability in their travel plans. - 24-hour service ensures you’re covered any time of day - Hassle-free airport transfers with direct routes to terminals - Professional drivers guarantee a safe and pleasant journey - Convenient pickup from cruise and ferry terminals for easy access
Price: $1,104.87
Duration: 0-10 hours
Cornwall’s rugged coastline has shaped St Ives for millennia, transforming it from ancient Celtic settlement, to bustling fishing port, to world-renowned artistic center. On this coastal walking tour, you’ll explore the winding streets and sheltered coves that tell the story of its remarkable transformation. You’ll discover how pilchard fishing once powered the economy, learn about the smuggling networks that flourished along these shores, and understand how the unique Atlantic light drew artists from across the world. The tour starts at St Ives railway station above Porthminster Beach. You’ll weave through ancient lanes too narrow for cars, and past cottages where fishermen once dried their nets on the walls. The tour ends at the iconic Tate St Ives gallery overlooking Porthmeor Beach, where you’ll hear how this fishing town became an artistic colony that transformed British art.
Price: $8.99
Duration: 1-1 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: GBP
- Languages: English, Cornish (historical/local), commonly spoken tourist languages include French, German, Spanish
- Climate: Oceanic
- Timezone: Europe/London
- Population: Approximately 11,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and events.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand generally do not require a visa for short stays in the UK, including St Ives. Other nationalities may need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa in advance. Electronic visa waivers or e-visas are not typically available for the UK. Visitors should check the latest UK government guidelines before travel.
About St Ives
St Ives is a picturesque seaside town located on the rugged coast of Cornwall in the United Kingdom. Renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant art scene, and charming narrow streets, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The town has long attracted artists, inspired by the quality of light and dramatic coastal landscapes, making it home to several renowned galleries and studios. Visitors can enjoy sandy beaches perfect for swimming and surfing, quaint fishing harbor views, and a welcoming atmosphere filled with cafes, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants. St Ives is also famous for its annual events such as the St Ives September Festival, which celebrates music, art, and literature. The combination of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historic charm makes St Ives a compelling destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and inspiration.
St Ives Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of South West England
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and events. Pack layers and waterproofs due to variable coastal weather. Respect local customs and the natural environment. Use contactless payment where possible, as many places accept cards. Book accommodations and activities in advance during peak season. Stay aware of tide times when visiting beaches.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $200
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Tate St Ives - A modern art gallery showcasing contemporary and historic works inspired by the local area. 2. Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden - Dedicated to the famous sculptor, featuring her studio and outdoor sculptures. 3. St Ives Harbour - A lively fishing port with picturesque views, seafood stalls, and boat tours. 4. Porthmeor Beach - Popular for surfing and sunbathing, with a beautiful sandy shoreline. 5. The Island - A small peninsula offering panoramic views of the town and coastline, perfect for walking and photography.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, and paddleboarding on the beaches. Art lovers can explore galleries and participate in workshops. Walking and hiking along the South West Coast Path offer breathtaking views. Sailing and boat trips provide opportunities to see marine wildlife. The town also hosts cultural events, live music, and food festivals throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
St Ives offers a rich seafood tradition, with fresh catches like Cornish crab, mussels, and mackerel featured in many dishes. Signature foods include Cornish pasties and cream teas. Dining ranges from casual fish and chips shops to fine dining establishments such as The Seafood Restaurant and Porthminster Beach Café, known for their fresh, locally sourced ingredients and stunning sea views.
Getting Around
St Ives is accessible by train via the St Ives branch line from St Erth, connecting to the mainline network. Buses link St Ives with nearby towns and airports. Within the town, walking is the easiest way to explore, with taxis and local buses available for longer distances. Parking is limited and can be expensive in peak season, so public transport is recommended.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and events. Pack layers and waterproofs due to variable coastal weather. Respect local customs and the natural environment. Use contactless payment where possible, as many places accept cards. Book accommodations and activities in advance during peak season. Stay aware of tide times when visiting beaches.
Culture & Customs
St Ives has a strong artistic heritage and a close-knit community spirit. Visitors should be respectful of local traditions and the environment. The town celebrates events like the St Ives September Festival and the Feast of St Ia. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated, and tipping in restaurants is customary but not obligatory. Photography is generally welcomed but ask permission when photographing people.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..