Accommodation in St Ives

Where to Stay

Whether you choose a Hotel overlooking the sea, a Bed and Breakfast tucked within the old fisherman’s cottages, converted sail lofts, or a self-catering house just steps from the beach, there is a bountiful selection of accommodation in St Ives, the majority within walking distance to the School.

NO RISK POLICY:  Please reserve your place on a course and if you don’t find suitable accommodation within 48 hours we will  refund you in full.

St Ives is very compact, probably no more than a 20 min walk from end to end, so wherever you are staying you should be able to walk to the studio easily.

One of the best ways of searching availability for B&B and self catering is via the St Ives Tourism Association website

Self catering can prove a cost effective option off season when short breaks are available. St Ives Holidays have over 200 properties locally and can advise on places to stay near the school as well as options such as Aspects Holidays.

Guest Houses are also listed on the large booking engines: Air B&B & Booking.com

If you are still unsure about finding accommodation near the school, don’t hesitate to get in touch – we can help you to find somewhere to stay in St Ives.

We can offer advise on all aspects of travel and accommodation when it comes to planning your perfect painting holiday in Cornwall.

Bed & Breakfast Self-Catering Hotels
Grid List Map

St Ives

Tiddles

Idyllic  accommodation available for singles/couple adjacent to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and less than 5 minutes from the Studio. 5% discount available to students attending the School’s classes from advertised rates. English, German and French spoken. Free parking included.

Tel: 07824 775902
Email:
Web: www.handpickedcottages.co.uk

Sloop Inn

One of Cornwall’s oldest and most famous Inns, favourite haunt of locals, fishermen, artists and tourists all year round.
Believed to date from around 1312 AD, the Sloop Inn is situated right on the harbour front at St Ives with only a cobbled forecourt and road separating it from the sea.

Tel: 01736 796584
Email:
Web: www.sloop-inn.co.uk

Sea Salt Apartment

Sea Salt is a light, bright modern ground floor apartment with sea glimpses. Located in a quiet residential area off Porthmeor Hill. Minutes from Porthmeor Beach, the SW Coast Path & Tate Gallery. A 10-minute walk into St Ives town via Porthmeor Hill, far enough out to escape the hustle & bustle.
Parking and garage for small to medium sized car only. Well equipped kitchen. Smart TV. Modern shower. King size bed with quality bed linen & towels. Electric heating. Garden seating area.

Web: www.airbnb.co.uk

Aspects

Discover over 350 self-catering holiday cottages in St Ives and Carbis Bay, – including dog-friendly stays. From cosy fisherman’s cottages to sea-view apartments and family homes, we offer something for everyone.
With an office on The Wharf in St Ives, we are always on hand throughout your holiday.

Tel: 01736 754242
Email:
Web: www.aspects-holidays.co.uk

Cornish Cottage Holidays

With nearly 50 years of holiday letting experience in Cornwall, Cornish Cottage Holidays boasts over 800 cottages across the county. Whether you’re looking for a cosy shepherd’s hut, a romantic cottage or a stylish beachfront apartment, they’re sure to have the perfect stay for you!

Tel: 01326 336773
Web: www.cornishcottageholidays.co.uk

Hideaway

Charming Fishermans cottage centrally located in the Digey (3 mins walk to the School of Painting). Three bedrooms, two bathroom on three floors – sleeps six but cosy for two. 
There are special low occupancy rates for 2/3/4 people and short break discounts available through Aspects.

Tel: 01736 754242
Email:
Web: www.aspects-holidays.co.uk

Carbis Bay

Green Apple

We are a family run bed and breakfast and we pride ourselves on the extra special touches and our customer service.

We have free off-road parking for up to three standard sized vehicles and there is plenty of on-road parking very close by. We are within easy access to the beautiful town of St Ives.

Tel: 01736 600020
Email:
Web: www.greenapplecornwall.com

Boskerris Hotel

The Boskerris is a small, stylish, coastal retreat with a relaxed Mediterranean style. Fifteen individual bedrooms, most with outstanding panoramic ocean views.
Nestled on the edge of St Ives on the Carbis Bay cliffs, with the perfect vantage point to admire the views across St Ives Bay from Godrevy Lighthouse to St Ives Harbour. 

Tel: +44 (0)1736 795295
Email:
Web: www.boskerris.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an art course as part of a creative holiday in Cornwall?

Yes. Many students combine a course at St Ives School of Painting with a stay in St Ives or elsewhere in Cornwall. Our one-day and multi-day courses provide an opportunity to dedicate time to your creativity while experiencing the landscape and artistic culture of the area. Find out more about painting holidays here.

Do I need any previous art experience?

Not always. We offer courses for all levels, including complete beginners, intermediate students and more experienced artists. You can look for the experience level listed on the individual course page to find the most suitable option for you. If you need any guidance on what course might suit you best, contact on our friendly team on 01736 797180 and they will be able to help.

How do I get to the School of Painting in St Ives?

By train:

The nearest mainline station is St Erth, which is approximately a 15-minute taxi journey away. From there, you can also take the St Ives Bay Line, which runs every 30 minutes. The School is a 10-minute walk from St Ives station.

By car:

Take the M5 to Exeter, then follow the A30 into Cornwall. After passing Hayle, exit at the St Erth roundabout towards St Ives. Continue through Lelant and Carbis Bay into St Ives..

How long has St Ives School of Painting been running?

St Ives School of Painting was founded in 1938 by artists Borlase Smart and Leonard Fuller. For more than 85 years, the School has welcomed people into its studios to learn, experiment and develop their creativity.

What makes St Ives a good place to study art?

St Ives has a long and influential artistic history, shaped by generations of artists drawn to its landscape, coastal light and creative community. Studying in our historic studios places you close to the sea, local galleries and many of the places connected with the story of modern art in St Ives.

Where can I park near the School?

The nearest long-stay car parks are:

Island Car Park
Barnoon Long Stay Car Park

Both are approximately a 5-minute walk from the School.

During the busy summer months, you may find it easier to park at Trenwith Car Park near the leisure centre and walk into town. A shuttle bus often runs back up the hill from near Tate St Ives.

Where can I stay in St Ives?

St Ives offers a wide range of accommodation, including hotels, guest houses, and self-catering options. You can explore options on our website, or contact us directly on 01736 797180 if you’d like personalised recommendations.

Where is St Ives School of Painting?

St Ives School of Painting is based in the historic Porthmeor Studios in St Ives, Cornwall. Our studios overlook Porthmeor Beach and are situated in the heart of the town’s internationally renowned artistic community.

Who teaches your art courses?

Our courses are led by practising artists – including Jill Eisele, Alice Mumford, Iona Sanders and Neil Canning – all with extensive knowledge of their chosen subjects and materials. Each tutor brings their own artistic experience, working methods and approach to teaching, giving students the opportunity to experience a wide range of ideas and techniques.