Fishing, farming and mining are the industries that shaped St Ives, with fishing the dominant force in the heart of the town. In the mid 19th Century, there were 400 boats involved in pilchard fishing, plus sailing ships importing coal, and exporting tin, copper, stone and fish.

St Ives is famous for its art galleries, studios and craftshops. Since the 19th century St Ives has attracted many artists, professional and amateur, many of which have international acclaim, gaining inspiration here and working in studios still in use today. The Tate Gallery, by Porthmeor Beach,displays work by St Ives-based artists and the Barbara Hepworth Museum features the work of this famous sculptress in her own garden and studio.

A stones throw from the harbour area is a host of narrow streets and passageways comprising the old part of the town, all interconnecting and offering innumerable opportunities to explore. St Ives offers visitors many quality shops and fine restaurants.

Whatever your reason for coming to St Ives - the surfing, the beaches, the coastal walks or the art - you can find it here.