Excursion St ives- the idyllic cornish village tour at Falmouth

Explore the famous art movement that began a century ago, and continues to this day, during this scenic, half-day excursion to

St. Ives.

St. Ives Walking Tour

Depart the pier in Falmouth for a scenic drive, approximate 90-minute drive to St. Ives, home of a famous art movement that began a century ago and continues to this day. Particularly celebrated in St. Ives is the work of a young group of painters, potters and sculptors such as Bernard Leach, Shoji Hamada, Alfred Wallis, Ben Nicholson, Christopher Walker and Barbara Hepworth. Upon arrival, take a brief orientation walk of St. Ives, your guide points out places of interest for independent exploration before you set off on your own.

St. Ives at Your Leisure

During the self-guided portion of your visit, explore St. Ives at your leisure. Sites worthy of consideration include the Tate Gallery, part of the Tate Gallery of London. This stunning building, which stands high above the magnificent surfing beach of Porthmeor, houses a varying exhibition of local and national works, including Barbara Hepworth's Museum & Sculpture Garden. Other galleries include The Leach Pottery, housing a small collection showcasing work by Leach, the world-famous ceramist who established St. Ives as a center for ceramics. Porthminster Gallery, one of St. Ives fine art galleries, exhibits leading and emerging St. Ives painters, ceramicists and sculptors. Your vantage point from the museum affords stunning panoramic vistas over the picturesque bay and harbor.

Shopping and Dining

Alternatively, you may opt to stroll about the charming streets at your leisure, browse for local handicrafts, or simply enjoy a leisurely respite at a local café or ancient tavern. At the conclusion of your visit, meet up with your guided, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 75-minute drive back to the pier. On route, travel over the dramatic landscape of the Cornish Moors, strewn with granite outcrops and mining villages.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Falmouth, St. Ives, Tate Gallery, Porthmeor Beach, Barbara Hepworth's Museum & Sculpture Garden, The Leach Pottery, Porthminster Gallery, Cornish Moors

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. Walking in St. Ives is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, a rain jacket or sweater, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Due to the local climate, most of the coaches are air-cooled. The tour sequence may vary. Admissions to various sites are not included. Access to St Ives may be by shuttle bus.