Many people choose to stay in St Ives. We chose to stay in Penzance and take a day trip to St Ives. We didn’t have any particular agenda; just wanted to wander around.
We took the train, changing trains at St Erth. The short train ride from St Erth to St Ives was described as scenic, and it was. We passed small villages inland, before hitting the north coast of Cornwall with wide beaches and cliffs. Sit on the right side of the train heading to St Ives if you can.
St Ives is surrounded by beaches. We saw one of them as we approached the town. I understand why people like it here.
We were there during low tide, so the harbor looks — and functions — more like another beach than a harbor. So many dogs.
The town itself was festive, with lots of little shops, bars, and restaurants. Definitely had a holiday feel.
The flowery churchyard is down near the shore. We liked the Stick Library for the dogs, along with the ubiquitous water bowl. The English really know how to take care of their dogs. And the vast majority are very well-behaved. The train was crowded on the way back and there were at least 3-4 dogs within touching distance.
