A small but beautiful town has been crowned UK’s ‘best’ seaside destination | Travel News | Travel

The UK has some incredible destinations, but only one has been crowned the best place for a beach holiday. 

St Ives has been named the “best seaside town” by the Express, with readers stating it is the “jewel in Cornwall’s crown” due to its vibrant art galleries and spectacular sights. 

It is also known for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from heather-covered cliffs and is surrounded by golden beaches with blue clear waters. 

However, the town is just as equally beautiful as its surrounding scenery with narrow cobbled streets, stone-bricked fisherman cottages and brightly coloured boats in the harbour which makes it look like the cover of a postcard. 

It has also recently been named one of the best places in the UK to go for anyone suffering from hayfever this summer according to Parkdean Resorts who said it is the “ideal location” for anyone attempting to plan a pollen-free holiday. 

Anyone wishing to experience the Cornish coastal charm of St Ives should spend the day at one of the town’s beaches as each has its own distinct atmosphere. 

Porthmeor Beach is the town’s most popular beach which tends to be best for surfing, swimming and other water activities. 

Porthminster Beach, however, tends to be better suited for families and photographers as it has unbeatable views of both St Ives Harbour and Godrvery Lighthouse while having plenty of facilities nearby, including the popular Porthminster Beach Café which is known for its fish and chips. 

There is also Porthgwidden Beach, which is much smaller and sheltered than the other beaches which makes it perfect for sunbathing and having a quieter day out. 

One of the most unique types of art forms in St Ives is stone balancing, and it is worth visiting Lambeth Walk Beach when the tide is low you will see many people creating complex gravity-defying artwork. 

St Ives’s artistic community dates back to the Victorian era which makes the Tate Gallery worth a visit as it is the local hub for artists.

It is also worth having a walk around Barbara Hepworth’s Studio, who was a famous local artist whose work has been visited in a beautiful sculpture garden. 

There is plenty to explore in St Ives, from its many eccentric independent stores selling all kinds of souvenirs to its surrounding nature with many coastal walks and hike trails 

However, you can also take a tour of the waters of St Ives as you can hire a boat or even take a boat trip to Seal Island where you can spend the day seeing seals as well as a century-old shipwreck near the wildlife colony. 

If you visit on the right day there are also a few local markets such as the Farmer’s Market, which sells lots of locally made delicious food, and is worth the visit to get your hands on some Cornish pastries. 

There is also the St Ives Craft Fair where bakers and artists set up stalls to show off their designs, makes and bakes. Plus, it is dog-friendly as long as your canine is on a lead. 

No matter what you do in St Ives you will have an incredible time as despite having a small population of less than 5,500 people this town has left a big impression on visitors due to its beautiful beaches and friendly atmosphere.