Top reasons to visit St Ives
- Stunning Coastal Scenery: St Ives boasts breathtaking views along the Cornish coast, perfect for leisurely strolls and memorable boat trips.
- Cultural Attractions: The town features a variety of art galleries and theatres, showcasing local talent and vibrant performances.
- Beautiful Beaches: Visitors can relax on sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore nature reserves and picturesque lakes, offering outdoor activities for all ages.
- Welcoming Accommodations: A range of guesthouses and hotels cater to diverse traveller needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels near St Ives
Discover the charm of St Ives with an array of hotel accommodations tailored to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat, a welcoming spot for LGBTQIA visitors, or convenient options for business travel, St Ives has it all. Choose from delightful guesthouses and seaside hotels or stay at the renowned Western or Harbour Hotel, all while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and vibrant local culture.
- Novotel Cambridge North: Situated 20.9km from St Ives, Novotel Cambridge North offers a contemporary retreat for eco-conscious travellers. This 3.5-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10 and is eco-certified, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritise sustainability. The hotel welcomes pets, providing amenities such as a pet policy that includes service animals and a fee waiver. Modern facilities and comfortable accommodations ensure a pleasant stay, complemented by the hotel’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Hyatt Centric Cambridge: Located 17.7km from St Ives, the 4-star Hyatt Centric Cambridge combines business convenience with a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, reflected in its solid guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel is ideal for business travellers, featuring well-equipped meeting spaces and a professional ambience. Pets are allowed, with specific policies in place for dogs, ensuring a hassle-free stay for you and your furry friend. Enjoy a blend of modern luxury and practical amenities, making it a top choice for both work and leisure.
- Holiday Inn Huntingdon - Racecourse by IHG: Just 9.7km from St Ives, the 3-star Holiday Inn Huntingdon - Racecourse is tailored for business travellers seeking convenience and comfort. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the hotel offers a range of business-focused amenities, including meeting rooms and high-speed internet access. Its location near the racecourse adds an element of local charm, while comfortable accommodations ensure a restful stay. This hotel provides a solid base for both work commitments and leisure activities.
Where to stay in and around St Ives
St Ives, a charming coastal town, offers a delightful blend of culture and adventure for every traveller. Explore the breathtaking Cornish coast with its stunning coastal views, perfect for an unforgettable escape. Discover secluded spots ideal for relaxation or seek out vibrant local businesses. Nearby, enchanting wedding venues and the warm, friendly atmosphere create a perfect British paradise for your holiday. From sandy beaches to art galleries, St Ives promises an enriching experience for all.
- Needingworth: Nestled within the vicinity of St Ives, Needingworth is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor experiences. The village sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak arrivals in April, June, and September. Attractions such as historic houses and private gardens add to its appeal, making it a perfect spot for those interested in history and nature. Enjoy leisurely strolls through its picturesque streets or delve into the local culture, all while enjoying a tranquil atmosphere.
- Willingham: Located approximately 9.7km from St Ives, Willingham is a quaint village renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The village experiences a consistent influx of tourists, especially during the months of March to April and July. Willingham boasts interesting landmarks such as a military museum and various monuments, offering a glimpse into the area’s historical significance. Whether you're exploring the charm of the small town or embracing the local culture, Willingham provides a unique experience that is both enriching and enjoyable.
- Offord Cluny: Situated about 11.3km from St Ives, Offord Cluny is a lovely village that attracts visitors with its city-themed and cultural experiences. With peak visitor numbers occurring in March to April and June, the village offers a range of activities including shopping and visiting public markets. Explore significant architecture and historic palaces that showcase the area’s rich history. Offord Cluny is perfect for those seeking a blend of leisure and exploration, all within a picturesque setting.
Things to do near St Ives
Shopping
In St Ives, explore local boutiques like The Blue Bramble for unique gifts and The Scented Garden for lovely scented candles. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Trelowarren Estate, where you can discover a range of artisan shops and crafts.
Recreation
Experience a rejuvenating stay at The Retreat, where holistic therapies and yoga sessions promote relaxation amidst tranquil surroundings. Explore the scenic coastal paths nearby, offering beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature while enjoying leisurely walks.
Adventure
At Bedford Autodrome, located 29.0km from St Ives, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing. Experience the adrenaline of high-speed laps on a professional track, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere that caters to adventure enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating day out.
Nightlife
Visit The Sloop Inn on the harbour for a vibrant atmosphere and a selection of local ales. For a lively evening, check out the St Ives Arts Club, where you can enjoy art exhibitions and live performances in a unique setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for St Ives
To save money on your trip to St Ives, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Sundays. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly hotels, including eco-certified options. Combine your hotel stay with flights and activities for potential discounts. Additionally, book in advance to secure affordable rates, and keep an eye out for special deals to maximise your savings. Exploring the beautiful beaches and coastal paths offers plenty of free activities to enjoy while you’re there.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in St Ives are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in St Ives is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in St Ives is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily identify the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save some money by combining your hotel stay in St Ives with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around St Ives
St Ives is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and beach experiences. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including nature reserves, leisure centres, and picturesque lakes. Whether you're keen on immersing yourself in local culture or enjoying the stunning coastal scenery, St Ives offers a delightful array of activities catered to all types of travellers.
- Castle Hill: Located 19.3km from St Ives, Castle Hill offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. With its romantic ambiance, the castle stands as a testament to bygone eras, making it a lovely spot for leisurely strolls and absorbing the surrounding culture.
- Pike & Eel Marina: Situated within St Ives, Pike & Eel Marina is a hub for adventure seekers. Here, you can engage in various outdoor activities, from boating to fishing, all while enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere that makes this marina a local favourite.
- Hill Rise Park Dog Walking Area: This delightful dog park, also located in St Ives, is the perfect spot for canine companions to roam freely. With ample green space, it invites dog owners to relax and socialise while their pets enjoy the outdoors.
Best time to go to St Ives
The best time to visit St Ives can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in St Ives falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in St Ives falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to St Ives
Accessing St Ives is convenient via several major airports in the UK. London Heathrow (LHR) is approximately 99.8km away, with nearby hotels including the 4-star Sheraton Heathrow Hotel, just 3.2km from the airport, and the Radisson RED Hotel, 1.3km away. London Gatwick (LGW), located 132.0km from St Ives, offers the 4-star Langshott Manor and Trivelles Gatwick, both within 4.8km. Alternatively, London Stansted (STN) is 54.7km away, featuring the 4-star Great Hallingbury Manor, situated 4.8km from the airport. Each hotel provides accessible transport options to their respective airports for a hassle-free journey.