Cherished Cottages has been looking after guests in St Ives since 2011. We focus on a small collection of hand-picked, high-standard holiday properties with the things visitors value here: sea views, good locations, thoughtful interiors and, where possible, dedicated parking. Our team all live in the town, so if you need advice choosing the right place or help planning your stay, we’re here when you need us.
Cherished Cottages began in 2011 with a simple idea – to represent only the best holiday cottages in the heart of St Ives. We started with two cottages in Downalong and now look after a hand-picked collection of 5-star standard properties, each with something special to offer – from spectacular sea views and tucked-away courtyards to central locations with that all-important parking.
Over the years our “Cherished family” has grown to include a small team who each play a part in looking after guests and owners. We’re big on personal service, but we also know people want convenience – so you can search, check availability and book online at any time, then speak to us in the office during the week if you’d like some help choosing.
Most importantly, we all live in St Ives. We know the lanes, the tides, the shortcuts and the best spots for a quiet coffee or a good pasty – and we use that knowledge to help you find the right place for your stay.
If you’d like reassurance from other guests, our independent UpFront Reviews show consistently high scores and genuine comments from people who’ve stayed in our cottages.
St Ives is one of those places that’s hard to beat. You’ve got award-winning beaches with soft sand and clear water, a busy working harbour, and a town full of independent shops, galleries and places to eat. Everything is close together, so you can walk from beach to harbour to home without needing the car.
The town has a long connection with art and creativity, from the Tate and Barbara Hepworth Museum through to the small studios and galleries tucked around every corner. Add in coastal walks, boat trips, gardens and family attractions nearby and you’ve got plenty to fill a short break or a longer holiday.
Because our team all live here, we’re happy to point you towards the right beach for your kids, the best spot for an evening drink, or where to go when the weather turns. Think of us as your local base camp while you explore the rest of Cornwall.
What is there to do in St Ives?
If beaches are your thing, you’re spoiled for choice – several of them have Blue Flag status, with safe swimming, golden sand and good facilities. Beyond the beach there are coastal walks, gardens, boat trips, family attractions and plenty of places for a simple wander with an ice cream. Our local guides cover walks, gardens, beaches, family fun, active holidays and water sports in more detail.
Where are the best places to eat?
St Ives has quietly become a bit of a food lover’s town. From places like Porthminster Beach Café and Porthmeor Beach Café to relaxed spots like The Hub, there’s a good spread of restaurants and cafés, many serving fish landed the same day at Newlyn. Our “Eating Out in St Ives” guide picks out some of the favourites and explains what to expect.
Where should I stay?
That depends on what you want from your holiday. There are harbour-front and beach-front apartments, cosy cottages in the old streets, and larger homes slightly further out with easier parking and more space. Think about whether you’d like sea views, outside space, level access, pet-friendly options or simply being a few metres from the sand – and if you’re unsure, ask us and we’ll suggest properties that fit.
Parking in St Ives can be a bit of a puzzle, especially in peak season, so it’s worth planning ahead. Some of our properties include dedicated parking – if that’s important to you, look for the parking icon when you browse and feel free to check with us before you book.
If you’re using public car parks, the main options around town include:
Most council car parks use pay-and-display machines and also support the JustPark app, so you can pay by card on your phone and extend your stay without returning to the car. Weekly tickets are available in some car parks and can work out better value if you’re here for a longer stay.
For a simple visual overview and tips on where to aim for at different times of day, take a look at our illustrated parking guide.
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