This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in St Ives.
St Ives (St. Ives), Cornwall, England, is located to the southwest of Cornwall. It has a slightly Mediterranean feel, with many of the houses built on the side of a hill overlooking the sea. A lot of the buildings are made from old, grey bricks and some of the sidewalks are still all ancient cobblestones. It is a very distinctive, old-fashioned-looking town.
It is a popular tourist magnet and the narrow streets seem even narrower when filled with the summer crowds. The options for hostels in St Ives (St. Ives), Cornwall, England are limited and therefore advance booking is recommended, especially in high season. Although there are plenty of hotels in St Ives (St. Ives), Cornwall, England, it may be worth looking for a hostel a little further afield in Penderleath, Landsend, or Penzance.
St Ives has a history of attracting artists due to its fantastic, clear light and the picturesque environment. As it's a coastal town, there is a choice of four sandy beaches and the chance to go on fishing trips. Porthmeor Beach is enhanced by "The Tate Gallery, St Ives," which opened in a modern building in the nineties. There is an entrance fee, but you can save money if you buy a joint ticket to include entry to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. Do be aware that the Barbara Hepworth Musuem is located amongst the steep back streets on Barnoon Hill. It is a fairly small museum but well worth a visit if you are interested in sculpture.
The streets in St Ives are very pleasant to walk around. There are a few pubs and the old thirties Royal Cinema, which shows all of the latest releases. The shops in St Ives are small, but there are plenty of them and lots of variety. It is possible to find designer brands besides the many little gift shops. Of course, the usual ice creams, fudge, and Cornish pasties are readily available.
Buses and trains serve St Ives regularly. The train itself is renowned for offering gorgeous coastal views. If alighting, it is impossible to miss the correct station, since St Ives is the end of the line. Definitely, it's worth a day trip at the very least.
Written by local enthusiast for St Ives hostels
Charli