Plan the perfect self-catering holiday in St Ives this October half-term with Cornish Riviera Holidays

Looking for the ideal autumn getaway this October half-term? St Ives, Cornwall is the perfect destination for a memorable family holiday, offering a blend of natural beauty, exciting activities and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Stay with Cornish Riviera Holidays and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of a self-catering holiday in one of the UK’s most stunning coastal locations!

Why visit St Ives in October?

October in St Ives is a magical time. The town is a peaceful retreat as the summer crowds disappear, while the weather remains mild and the surrounding moorlands burst into autumnal colours. With the October half-term break approaching, it’s the perfect time to explore all that St Ives has to offer, from its famous beaches to charming streets—and staying in one of our self-catering properties lets you experience it all at your own pace.

Stay with Cornish Riviera Holidays

At Cornish Riviera Holidays, we provide a variety of self-catering accommodations suited to families of all sizes. Our properties offer the perfect home-from-home where you can cook your own meals, enjoy family time, and come and go as you please. Whether you want a cosy cottage near the beach or a spacious apartment with breathtaking sea views, we have the ideal option for your half-term break.

Choose Your Cottage

Top family fun activities for half-term:

About St Ives Cornwall

1. Explore the beautiful beaches in St Ives

Beach days and coastal adventures:  staying with us means you’re never far from St Ives’ beautiful beaches. Pack a picnic and head to the sands of Porthminster or Porthmeor where the kids can enjoy games, build sandcastles, or even try rock pooling. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a family-friendly walk along the South West Coast Path and soak up the stunning views.

2. Art and craft workshops

St Ives is renowned for its vibrant arts scene. Tate St Ives often runs free family workshops during the school holidays, perfect for budding young artists. You can also take part in the Barbara Hepworth Museum‘s outdoor sculpture trail, where children can learn about one of the UK’s most famous artists in a hands-on way. Many galleries around town are free to enter and showcase incredible local artwork that will inspire visitors of all ages.

3. St Ives treasure hunt

Discover the town in a fun and educational way with the St Ives Treasure Hunt. Pick up a treasure hunt pack from the local visitor information centre (based in the library) and explore the hidden corners of St Ives. It’s a fantastic way to get the whole family involved and learn about the town’s fascinating history.

4. Coastal wildlife spotting

St Ives is surrounded by breathtaking coastal paths that offer the perfect adventure for families. The famous South West Coast Path provides a chance to spot local wildlife, from seals basking on the rocks to a variety of seabirds. Pack a pair of binoculars, and take a gentle stroll with the family to enjoy Cornwall’s natural beauty.

5. Local markets and farm shops

One of the best parts of a self-catering holiday is enjoying fresh, local produce. Visit the  St Ives Farmers’ Market or nearby farm shops to stock up on delicious Cornish ingredients, from freshly caught fish to local vegetables. Enjoy a home-cooked meal back at your property, or treat the family to some Cornish ice cream after a day of adventure.

6. October half-term events at the St Ives library

The St Ives Library often hosts free or low-cost events for children during half-term, including story sessions, arts and crafts, and fun workshops. Keep an eye on their schedule for a chance to join in the fun and encourage your children’s love for books and creativity.

Rainy day fun

If the weather takes a turn, there are still plenty of ways to entertain the family. Our self-catering accommodations provide the perfect cosy retreat for board games, movies, or a baking session with local ingredients. For a day out, visit the St Ives Museum or try out the pottery workshops at the Leach Pottery, just a short walk or drive from your holiday home. Read our ‘10 Things to Do in St Ives When it’s Raining blog.

Why self-catering with Cornish Riviera Holidays?

Choosing a self-catering holiday with Cornish Riviera Holidays gives you the freedom to set your own schedule. Cook breakfast together in the morning, pack a picnic for the beach, or enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of St Ives’ family-friendly restaurants—our properties are centrally located, making it easy to explore everything the town has to offer.

Benefits of self-catering:

  • Flexible mealtimes: prepare food whenever it suits your family.
  • Plenty of space: many of our properties are designed with families in mind, offering space for everyone to relax.
  • Cost-effective: save money by cooking meals in your accommodation or enjoying the many free activities St Ives has to offer.
  • Local living: feel like a true local as you shop at markets, meet the friendly community, and enjoy a more immersive experience.

Book your half-term holiday today!

This October half-term, make St Ives your destination for family fun and relaxation. With a variety of free and low-cost activities on offer, paired with the comfort and convenience of self-catering accommodation from Cornish Riviera Holidays, your family is sure to have a memorable stay.

Visit our website for the latest availability or call us at 01736 797891 to book your stay today.