Hotels in St Ives

Whispers of the River: Discover the Enchantment of St Ives

St Ives, a charming coastal gem in Cornwall, enchants visitors with its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant arts scene. Famous for its picturesque harbour and quaint cobbled streets, this small town is a haven for artists, boasting the renowned Tate St Ives and numerous galleries. Explore the stunning coastal path, indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, or unwind on the sandy shores of Porthmeor Beach. With its breathtaking sunsets and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, St Ives is the perfect romantic retreat or family getaway, where nature and culture beautifully intertwine.

Top locations to stay in St Ives

When visiting St Ives, England, great areas to stay in include Cambridge, Huntingdon, and St Neots. Cambridge offers a rich academic atmosphere with stunning architecture, while Huntingdon is known for its friendly community and historical charm. St Neots also boasts a welcoming vibe and beautiful riverside views. For first-time visitors, Cambridge is best suited due to its iconic sights and vibrant culture.

1. CambridgeOpens in a new window: A vibrant city known for its rich history and stunning architecture, Cambridge offers a unique blend of cultural attractions and lively experiences. Wander along the picturesque River Cam, explore the beautiful parks, or visit the iconic King's College Chapel. The city is also home to a variety of shops, from high-street brands to charming boutiques. In the evenings, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene with theatres and live music venues that host an array of performances, ensuring there's always something to see and do.
2. HuntingdonOpens in a new window: This friendly market town is perfect for those seeking a quieter escape while still enjoying easy access to larger cities. Huntingdon features lovely parks and scenic riverside walks, ideal for leisurely strolls. The town has a welcoming community vibe, with local shops and cafés that offer a taste of everyday life. For cultural enthusiasts, there are local galleries and theatres showcasing regional talent, making it a delightful place to stay and immerse yourself in the local scene.
3. St NeotsOpens in a new window: St Neots is a charming riverside town that offers a peaceful retreat with a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy the scenic views along the River Great Ouse, which provide great opportunities for walking and cycling. The town has a variety of shops and markets, perfect for picking up unique gifts or local produce. St Neots also hosts various community events and cultural activities, making it a lovely spot to experience the warmth of local traditions while enjoying a relaxed pace of life.

Things to do in St Ives

St Ives enchants visitors with its stunning beaches, picturesque rivers, and rolling countryside. Explore the scenic coastline by ferry, dive into crystal-clear waters, or hike through lush greenery. With its charming atmosphere and abundance of outdoor activities, this small town is a delightful retreat for nature lovers.

• Mill RoadOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll down Mill Road, where the charm of a small town meets the beauty of the countryside. This picturesque street offers a delightful view of the surrounding river, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Along the way, you’ll find quaint shops and local cafes where you can grab a bite or a warm drink. The atmosphere here is relaxed, inviting you to soak in the local vibe while surrounded by the lush greenery and tranquil waters that define this part of St Ives. It's an ideal place to unwind and appreciate the simple pleasures of life in a quintessential English setting.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in St Ives

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit St Ives are January, February, and December, when hotel prices are lower. For those looking to explore the charming landmarks and rich culture of this small town, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your affordable trip, you can indulge in delightful dining experiences, enjoy the scenic river views, and visit local bars, all while soaking in the friendly atmosphere. Additionally, you might find that prices could drop further during these off-peak seasons, offering great value for money as you relax and sip coffee in the picturesque countryside.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to St Ives, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. With the Smart Shopping tool available via the app, you're more likely to see comparisons of hotel prices and amenities. This way, if rooms become available or prices drop, you'll be among the first to know and can plan your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you find a better deal for your stay in a St Ives hotel. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we’ll recommend alternative dates that might be more affordable, increasing the likelihood that you’ll save.
4. Consider your location: Opting for accommodation near key attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, you might consider hotels situated in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you wish to visit. You may also wish to explore independent hotels located further afield, as they usually tend to be more affordable and can provide a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to St Ives

St Ives experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.2°F (4.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.1°F (17.3°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit St Ives are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, January, April, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.