A town in the south-west of England has been labelled as one of the “most beautiful autumn towns” in the UK, with people saying it’s a “beautiful place with tons of character”
St Ives, a popular surfing destination in Cornwall with its stunning beaches and vibrant art scene, has been lauded as an exceptional holiday spot throughout the year, not just during the summer months.
In fact, Premier Inn has dubbed St Ives one of the “most beautiful autumn towns”, saying that the cooler seasons are the “perfect time to experience the beaches without the crowds”.
This historic town in the southwest is famed for its beaches which draw tourists and surfers from all corners of the globe.
Its sandy stretches include Harbour Beach, Porthmeor, Porthminster, Porthgwidden, Carbis Bay, Bamaluz, Lambeth Walk, and Porthkidney.
Three of these – Porthminster, Porthmeor and Carbis Bay – have been honoured with Blue Flag status this year, a prestigious international recognition of excellent coastal water quality and environmental stewardship, reports the Express.
Both Carbis Bay and Harbour Beach scooped TripAdvisor Travellers Choice 2025 awards. One chuffed visitor described Harbour Beach as “a beautiful part of Cornwall with tons of character”, while another said: “I have never seen such a beautiful place in the U.K as St Ives beach. Many have said it’s like being abroad and it really is!”.
Meanwhile, Carbis Bay has been described as “absolutely beautiful” and “well worth the walk down the hillside to reach it”.
A second visitor posted: “Paddleboarding at Carbis Bay Beach in St Ives is a truly delightful experience. The beach itself is a picturesque haven, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters that provide the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure.”
For those who enjoy staying active, there are water activities available such as surfing and paddleboarding, alongside other pursuits like tennis and golf.
The locale also boasts a celebrated artistic heritage, featuring numerous galleries and attractions to discover including the Tate, St Ives Arts Club and Leach Pottery.
Among the most beloved destinations is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.
The venue has been described as “one of the best art places in the world” by one enthusiastic tourist.
They added: “The garden with the sculptures is amazing and then seeing her workshop … just wow.”
Another said: “Always visit here when we are at St Ives. Stunning garden and sculpture. Terrific atmosphere. A very informative display as you enter and a small amount of gifts can be purchased too.”
St Ives has been crowned the top family holiday destination by Coast magazine, and was also recognised as the UK’s most joyful location for holidaymakers, according to research by holidaycottages.co.uk..