Outside of the peak season the fabulous little town of St Ives and surrounding villages have plenty to offer all of our lovely holiday makers and visitors to Cornwall.
Early in February we have the ancient annual tradition of the St Ives Feast Day, celebrating the consecration of the Parish Church of St Eia in 1434. Offering the rare chance to watch the game of “Hurling the Silver Ball” (a centuries old form of Rugby) enjoyed by all of the local school children, who even get a day off school to attend!
The feast day always falls on the first Monday after February 3rd and starts off with the mayor’s (this year the mayor is lovely Suzanne Tanner) civic procession for the blessing at St Ia Well near Porthmeor Beach, followed by the start of the boisterous hurling of the silver ball when participants attempt to win the ball off each other around the town. Whoever returns the ball to the mayor on the steps of St Ives Guildhall on the stroke of midday receives a silver coin. In the afternoon, pennies are proffered from the balcony by town councillors to the waiting children on the Guildhall forecourt.
Watching the hurling is an intriguing insight into one of Cornwall’s most ancient traditions. Why not take a ring side seat near the beach and cheer for your favourite participant, some of whom even dive into the chilly sea to escape with the ball.
Hurling the Silver Ball is one of Cornwall’s oldest customs dating back at least a thousand years. Of unknown origin, the game involves much physical rough and tumble as each side (traditionally the ‘countrymen’ and ‘townsmen’ of a particular parish) tries to keep possession of a cricket ball-sized ball made of apple wood coated in silver.
On 11th February at the fantastic Tremenheere Kitchen there is a Beach Finds statement jewellery making class including brunch – the food is always top class at this lovely venue, and worth a trip for a meal if you can’t make the workshop, with views over St Michaels Mount and the Bay. If you are feeling romantic why not take your loved ones to their fabulous St Valentines evening supper – but be sure to book as the spaces sell quickly!
In mid- February we have St Valentine’s Day –whether you are a big romantic at heart, or just need a peaceful escape, it is the perfect time to come away with your loved ones and have a late winter’s break. We think there is nowhere nicer than St Ives to spend an enchanting short break and here at Cherished Cottages we have several stunning smaller properties which will fit the bill perfectly! From cosy cottages to amazing apartments with glorious sea views, like the lovely 14 Barnaloft.
Whilst in St Ives why not pass an afternoon by taking your loved ones for a Champagne Afternoon tea at the lovely Harbour Hotel with amazing views over Porthminster Beach, the Bay and the Town.
Then half term arrives, with the schools out, the daffodils in the fields in bloom, and the evenings getting lighter. Why not come down to St Ives to celebrate the fast approaching Spring and have a short break (or a full week away) with all of the family? Once here there is plenty for everyone to do from bracing walks on our wild windswept beaches and coastal paths, cosy meals in our amazing family friendly pubs and restaurants, or a visit to one of our all year round attractions, like the fabulous Eden Project.
And, of course, don’t forget to bring your four-legged friends as all of the beaches are still dog friendly at this time of the year!
We look forward to welcoming you,
Tim & The Girls at Cherished Cottages
