7 Virgin Street

Set in the heart of St Ives, this charming one-bedroom retreat creates a fabulous base for couples looking to enjoy all that the town and surrounding coastline has to offer. A fisherman’s cottage with oodles of character, 7 Virgin Street is a thoroughly traditional Cornish dwelling with low, beamed ceilings, exposed granite walls and timber salvaged from old boats which has been used to build its stairs. Though tucked out of the way from the bustle of the town, it is in fact just a few steps from Fore Street and 50 yards from the harbour which means the town’s bakeries, cafes, shops, restaurants and beaches are all mere moments from the front door. Inside, the cottage has a cosy ground floor lounge while upstairs there’s a double bedroom and separate shower room. The lower ground floor is where you’ll find its amply equipped kitchen with flagstone floors, and at its centre is an old granite pillar from the original St Ives Fishery. The Downalong is St Ives’ oldest quarter so the streets here are narrow, winding and dotted with art galleries, gift shops and boutiques to peruse. Life in St Ives centres around its beautiful harbour which is a lovely spot for water sports, sunbathing and enjoying a meal overlooking its turquoise water. The town’s other beaches are excellent too, with Porthmeor being overlooked by the Tate gallery, and Porthminster being particularly good if you are a fan of surfing. Bamaluz Beach and Porthgwidden Beach are 10 minutes’ walk, however if you do fancy exploring the area by car, Porthkidney Beach, Gwithian and Marazion are all a 20-minute drive, while Praa Sands and Mousehole are just under 30 minutes away.