Kerb Appealz Estate Agents in St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives began as a small fishing settlement and became a bustling fishing port from the Middle Ages. The town prospered and in the 13th century it was granted a Charter by Kind Edward I. In 1434 the Parish of St. Ela was consecrated, an event that is still commemorated today with annual Feast Day activities.

By 1639 St Ives was incorporated as a borough by King Charles I in 1639. The town enjoyed prosperity and in 1770 improvements were made to the harbour. One of the most noteable events was the pier which was built by John Smeaton, who was famously known for the Eddystone Lighthouse. Later in the 18th century slate and mineral began to play an important role in the future of the town.

At the beginning of the 19th century, fishing was still the main source of wealth for the towns people of St Ives. Their boats from the port supplied pilchards to other continents. As the century came to a close however, the fishing industry fell into decline and many boat building yards fell silent.

New developments started to happen in 1877 when the railway station was opened and St Ives became the ever popular holiday destination.

Today the train ride between St Erth and St Ives is a must do with its’ breathtaking coastal scenery.

St Ives is known for its exceptional quality of light and it has attracted many artists throughout the centuries including Turner, Henry Moore and more recently Barbara Hepworth. Bernard Leech started his pottery in the town.

There are a whole host of art shops dotted around the town so you are bound to find something that you like.

Many of the original fishermans cottages are now holiday homes and there is a wealth of restaurants, galleries, museums, the Tate Gallery, beaches, shops and lots more to explore.

With its outstanding beaches, exceptionally stunning scenery and pretty accessible town you will understand why St Ives is a major tourist destination and living here is the dream.