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Overview

St Ives attracts visitors not only from the British Isles but the rest of Europe, America, Asia and Australasia. Lured to this picturesque fishing town in the far west of Cornwall, with its favourable climate and world-famous artistic heritage set against the wild and rugged Atlantic coastline. Once here the beauty of its landscape is never forgotten. Even travelling from the next county Devon, a trip to St Ives can seem like it takes forever to get here, but we’re sure you’ll agree it’s well worth the journey.

Apart from Newquay Airport there are two other airports in the Southwest region at Bristol and Exeter. Flying time from London to Newquay is approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. Exploring beyond St Ives is best done by car but parking spaces in town fill up quickly so a Park-and-Ride system operates during busy holiday months. Although there is no better way to enjoy the stunning coastline than onboard the St Ives branch line railway as it hugs the bay providing breathtaking views of the sea.

How to get here

By Train

Journey time from London Paddington approximately 6 hours. Or the overnight riviera sleeper service operated by First Great Western. If travelling from the North or Midlands services are operated by Cross Country Trains. Contact National Rail Enquiries for additional information and timetables. Alight at St Erth and join the scenic branch line through Lelant Saltings, Carbis Bay before finally arriving at St Ives.

By Coach

National Express operate a long distance scheduled coach service in and out of county. The town’s bus station is located at the Malakoff. Tickets can be bought from the Visitor Information Centre.

By Car

Leave the M5 motorway just after Exeter at Junction 31 and join the A30. The journey to St Ives will take approximately two hours. Continue on the A30 bypassing Hayle, take the second exit at the next roundabout and go straight on at the first mini-roundabout. If you want to drive into town, turn left at the second mini roundabout, following the signposts.

Parking tips.

By Plane

Newquay Airport is approximately 50 minutes drive from St Ives. Destinations include Stanstead, Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester, Dublin, Edinburgh and others. Flights are also available to the Isles of Scilly Skybus from Land’s End.