Spend a morning in St Ives — one of Britain's most beloved artists' towns — with a visit to the clifftop Tate St Ives gallery, then wander the cobbled lanes, working harbour, and famous white sand beaches.
What to expect
Arrive in St Ives as the morning light turns the harbour water an impossible shade of turquoise. Begin at the Tate St Ives, whose curved white walls house rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary British art, always in conversation with the sea outside. Walk five minutes to the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden, her studio preserved exactly as she left it. Then explore the warren of lanes — potters, jewellers, and galleries around every corner — before a bowl of chowder or crab sandwich on the harbourfront.
Good to know
St Ives is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Falmouth by private car or taxi. The town can be busy in high summer — arrive early for the best experience. Pre-book Tate St Ives tickets online. Allow at least 4–5 hours in total. Parking is very limited; a private driver is strongly recommended.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Cornwall — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Cornwall
- Bespoke Private Cornwall Day Tour: Castles, Coves & Cliffs
- Eden Project: Private Access to the World's Largest Greenhouse Domes
- St Michael's Mount: Island Castle Walk Across the Ancient Causeway
- Kayak to a Hidden Cove: Private Guided Sea Kayaking from Falmouth
- Select Southwest Private Tour: Land's End, Minack Theatre & Porthcurno