Best Alfresco Spots for Summer Drinks in St Ives

Charlotte Ballam

Warm sands and sparkling seas make for idyllic summer days while leisurely drinks as dusk falls are just the cherry on the cake. St Ives is by no means short of places to eat and drink but here are our recommendations for particularly magical spots to round off another perfect day in the sun.

Foxholes West

Porthmeor Beach is easily home to the best sunset in St Ives (and arguably much further afield). Situated above West Beach Bakery, new rooftop bar Foxholes boasts stunning views of the beach as well as Cornish beers, Cornish spirits and a barbeque every Tuesday from 6pm. Why not take one of West's delicious sour-dough pizzas up top and enjoy with a local beer or G&T? You'll find Foxholes below the bowling green, en route to the Sail Lofts car park. At no more than a 5 minute walk from your luxury cottage in St Ives, what are you waiting for?

SILCo Searoom

Formerly known as the Tearoom, the Thompson family hung up their oven gloves when they started making St Ives Gin. Their range has quickly expanded to meet demands of gin lovers everywhere and now includes a Blood Orange gin, Super Berry gin and four 'Cellos', think Limoncello only theirs comes in lime, orange and grapefruit flavours as well as lemon. Situated on the Wharf just before Smeaton's Pier, the Searoom is a prime spot to watch the boats go by as you enjoy a G&T in the sun.

Porthminster Garden Gin Bar

Thanks to its white sand, palm trees and luscious garden, Porthminster gives off some seriously tropical vibes which are by no means hindered by the addition of their  Garden Gin Bar. Complete with decking, parasols and chilled playlist, it's the perfect space to enjoy some drinks on the beach. With Champagne, cocktails and gin flowing daily, you may come to appreciate their pop up barbeque - think fresh lobster, steaks and mackerel, cooked right in front of you by Porthminster Cafe's very own chefs. Located just below the train station, Porthminster beach is an easy walk across town from your luxury cottage in St Ives.

Pedn Olva Roof Terrace

Perched atop of granite rocks between the harbour and Porthminster, Pedn Olva offers absolutely stunning views of both St Ives harbour and Porthminster beach. The sea-facing windows in the bar make for the perfect cosy drinking spot in the winter, however at this time of year you'll be missing out if you don't head out to the terrace once you've picked up your choice of refreshment. Run by St Austell Brewery, this is an ideal stop for Cornish beer and ale lovers.

Sloop Upper Deck

The sundrenched terrace of the Upper Deck provides a welcome alternative to the hustle and bustle of the Sloop itself, while table service makes it a real gem. Settle in for the evening (or afternoon) and take in beautiful views of the harbour accompanied by a jug of Pimms or Sangria. If walking from your luxury cottage in St Ives, you'll come across the Upper Deck before you reach the Sloop itself. If you're approaching from the Sloop just turn left before Willy Waller's ice cream and you'll see it just above the Sloop carpark. Please note that the Upper Deck does not allow children under 16.