Autumn in St Ives

Helena Clark-Davies

As the summer draws to a close its time to start thinking about where to spend those autumn months. Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in St Ives as it combines the warmth and brightness of the summer with a far quieter town. Enjoy the sunny days on the beach or exploring walks throughout the county and make the most of Cornwall’s galleries and museums on those days when the weather is not on your side.

Naum Gabo at The Tate

Until the end of September you will be able to catch this landmark exhibition at The Tate St Ives. Gabo was an internationally renowned sculptor and this exhibition is the first extensive retrospective of Gabo’s work to be held in the UK in over 30 years. An early proponent of constructivism, this retrospective marks the centenary of Gabo’s Realistic Manifesto which laid out is convictions that modern art should engage with and reflect the modern age.

Falmouth

Make the most of the quiet roads to venture a little further afield this autumn. Falmouth is a beautiful and vibrant town on the south coast with picturesque shopping streets and plenty of great places to eat. Pendennis Castle on the outskirts of the town was built by Henry VIII and has defended the Cornish coast for centuries. Today you can explore the keep and savour the beautiful sea views. For a rainy day option, check out the Maritime Museum whose immersive Monsters of the Deep exhibition is a must-see for those with children.

Coastal Path

Autumn is a great time to follow the famous St Ives – Zennor Coastal Path. The walk can be steep in places but the beautiful views of St Ives Bay and the Atlantic ocean make it more than worth the challenge. Head to the Moomaid café and treat yourself to a delicious milkshake made with their delicious ice-cream when you reach Zennor. For a less time-consuming option you can drive out to Zennor and join the path there. If you head away from St Ives you can take in the beautiful scenery along the next stretch of the coastal path and enjoy a pub lunch at The Gurnard’s Head before looping back to Zennor through the fields.

The Beaches

Always the best part of a Cornish holiday; enjoy the beaches on the warm autumn days without having to share their beauty with many others. Learn to surf with St Ives Surf School or enjoy a hot chocolate at Porthminster Café while looking out to sea. The dog beach ban ends in October so autumn is the ideal time to enjoy beach walks with your four-legged friend by your side.