St Ives is glorious in the sunshine, but weather in the UK is unpredictable, particularly in Cornwall that has its own micro climate. If it rains during your St Ives holiday, fear not, there are plenty of things to do beside sunny beach days.
Here’s our pick of what to do in St Ives when it’s raining:
1. Visit one of the many galleries
You’re spoilt for choices with galleries in St Ives. Gallery hopping is the perfect way to spend a rainy day in St Ives.
The Tate St Ives
Overlooking the Atlantic, The Tate has plenty of amazing art to see and a lovely restaurant that has gorgeous views over Porthmoer beach.
The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture garden
Visit where Barbara Hepworth lived and worked in Trewyn studio. A fascinating look at her life and work. Most of the bronze sculptures are in the positions Barbara placed herself.
Porthminster Gallery
Showcasing the best up and coming names in British art, The Porthminster gallery is the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon. Currently exhibiting Nick Bodimeade’s ‘Beach’ paintings.
Penwith Gallery
Home to Penwith society of arts, Penwith gallery has three public galleries, artists’ studios, a print workshop, a sculpture courtyard, shop and archive to enjoy.
2. Spend an afternoon in the Arcade
Nothing beats a traditional seaside amusement arcade! Visiting Harbour amusements is a great way to spend a drizzly afternoon, with 2p machines, dance machines, bowling, air hockey, candy floss and much more, it has something for all the family. Why not even get a family photo in the Photo Booth as a memento of your St Ives Holiday.
3. Go swimming at the local leisure centre
When it’s too rainy and windy to take a sea dip, why not head to the local leisure centre. Featuring a 25 meter pool, gym and cafe, it’s a great place to kill a few hours when the weather takes a turn.
4. Catch a movie
When there’s a rainy forecast, why not catch a movie? The Royal cinema has 2 screens and is located at the bottom of the Stennack. Most buses stop at the Stennack and there is a taxi rank located to the side for avoiding a rainy walk home to your St Ives cottage rental.
5. Head for a cream tea
A trip to St Ives wouldn’t be complete without having a delicious cream tea! Even in the rain, St Ives views are lovely, so head to Pedn Olva which overlooks St Ives Bay.
The big question is, Jam or cream first?
6. Hit the shops
St Ives has a wonderful selection of both independent and familiar favourite shops.
Dart in and out of the showers and visit the many shops located on Fore Street and along the harbour.
For a raincoat: Head to Finisterre, a popular Cornish brand famed for their range of stylish and practical raincoats and surf wear.
For jewellery and ceramics: Head to The painted bird which has a beautiful range of jewellery brands and some lovely ceramics.
For a book to keep you occupied during a downpour: Head to St Ives Book seller.
7. Brave the sea with a surf
When it’s already raining, why not take a surf lesson? St Ives surf school holds daily group lessons or you can book private lessons in advance. Wet suits and boards are provided, so you can focus on trying to catch some waves.
8. Relax in a spa
Your St Ives holiday should be a time to relax and unwind, so what better way to do that then head for a spa day. Una, located in Carbis bay features a 15 meter indoor infinity pool, outdoor lido, fitness gym, sauna, steam room and variety of spa treatments for you to melt the stress away.
9. Head to the pub
St Ives is home to some lovely pubs to spend a rainy afternoon. Whether you’re looking for a sea view, or cosy spot to watch the world go by, St Ives has a pub to suit whatever mood.
For St Ives most iconic pub: Head to The Sloop Inn which dates back to the 14th century and is a favourite with tourists and locals alike.
For Harbour views: Head to the lifeboat Inn which has large windows that you can look out on to the harbour to.
For live music: Head to The Kettle ‘n’ wink which holds live music evenings and open mic nights.
For a hidden gem: Head to the Pilchard press, a micro pub that’s perfect for real ale lovers.
For sea views: Go to Pedn Olva which has gorgeous views over St Ives bay and a great selection of food.
10. Cosy up in your cottage
Rather than heading out, why not enjoy time in your St Ives cottage rental and cosy up with a good book or simply enjoy taking in the views. At Cornish Riviera, lots of our St Ives cottage rentals have sea views, so you can enjoy watching the rain and swell of the Atlantic knowing you’re warm and dry.
11. Head for a delicious lunch
As well as a great art scene, St Ives has a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes for food lovers. Whether you’re looking for a hearty pub meal or fresh seafood there’s something for every pallet.
For a delicious brunch: head to Brine which overlooks the harbour.
For classic pub grub: head to the Hub or the lifeboat.
For small plates: head to Ardour or Silco.
For Seafood: head to the Mermaid.
12 .Take a chocolate making workshop
Love chocolate? Why not spend a rainy day making your own? At I should coco, they hold chocolate making workshops where you can mould and decorate your own chocolate treats using white, milk or dark chocolate. Fun for all ages!
St Ives is beautiful come rain or shine, with plenty of activities to do and plenty to see.
If you’re looking for the perfect St Ives cottage rental, at Cornish Riviera we have an array of self catering property to suit your perfect St Ives holiday.
