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Offered languages
- English
- English
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.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
This tour starts opposite the train station on the yellow hatching. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
Walk along this beautiful sandy beach with its distinctive Victorian railway station perched above the golden sands. Experience the perfect introduction to St Ives where the Great Western Railway's arrival in 1877 transformed this remote fishing village into an accessible coastal destination.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Explore this historic parish church dedicated to St Ia, the Celtic saint who legendarily crossed the sea on a miraculous journey to establish this settlement. Discover how this sacred site connects St Ives to its ancient Celtic origins and the Christian heritage that shaped the community for over a thousand years.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Marvel at the preserved studio and sculpture garden where one of Britain's most important 20th-century artists lived and worked until her death. Experience the intimate creative space where Hepworth drew inspiration from Cornwall's dramatic landscapes and seascapes to create her revolutionary modern sculptures.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass by this historic harbourside pub that has served fishermen, smugglers, and artists for centuries with its weathered stone walls and maritime atmosphere. Enjoy learning how this traditional inn became a gathering place where local fishing families and visiting artists shared stories over pints of ale.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Walk along this impressive stone pier with its two historic lighthouses that have guided vessels safely into St Ives harbour since the 1700s. Explore the engineering marvel that protected the fishing fleet and hear dramatic tales of shipwrecks, daring rescues, and the brave harbour pilots who risked their lives.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Stroll past this charming local museum housed in a former pilchard cellars and fishermen's cottages that tells the story of the town's maritime heritage. Discover fascinating artifacts from St Ives' fishing industry, smuggling history, and artistic legacy that bring the town's remarkable transformation to life.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Explore this defensive fortification from the 1500s positioned on what locals call "The Island" despite being connected to the mainland. Marvel at how this Tudor-era stronghold once protected St Ives harbour from pirates and enemy ships while offering spectacular panoramic views across the bay.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Visit this ancient chapel that has watched over sailors and fishermen for centuries from its prominent position overlooking the harbour. Experience the spiritual heart of St Ives' maritime community where generations of fishing families prayed for safe voyages and gave thanks for safe returns.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Walk along this stunning beach beloved by surfers and artists alike, with its golden sands and dramatic Atlantic waves. Enjoy the wild beauty that has inspired countless painters and sculptors who came to capture Cornwall's unique quality of light and ever-changing seascapes.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Marvel at this world-renowned gallery perched dramatically above Porthmeor Beach, showcasing how St Ives became Britain's most important artistic colony. Discover how this modern museum celebrates the extraordinary community of artists who transformed a fishing village into an internationally recognised center of contemporary art.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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