For such a small town, St Ives has a good amount of pubs and bars. Apparently in days of yore there were many many more!
Whether you’re after a refreshing pint with a sea view, a cosy fireside corner, or a buzzing crowd just steps from the beach, St Ives has a pub to suit every mood.
From centuries-old inns frequented by fishermen to quirky micro-pubs serving craft ales, here are 15 of the very best pubs and bars in and around St Ives that are well worth a visit.
12 Fantastic Pubs In St Ives Cornwall
1. The Sloop Inn
Right on the harbourfront, The Sloop Inn is one of Cornwall’s oldest and most iconic pubs, dating back to the 14th century. With its low beams, whitewashed walls and bustling terrace, it’s a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Grab a Cornish ale or fresh seafood and enjoy the views . It’s the perfect spot to watch the tide roll in and the world go by.
You can eat, drink and sleep at The Sloop, which is made up of 3 parts - the main Sloop Inn, The Captain's Table and The Upper Deck.
Best for: Sunday lunches, live music, meat raffles and sitting outside with your pint!
LOCATION MAP: The Wharf St Ives, Saint Ives TR26 1LP
Click to visit The Sloop Inn website >>
2. The Lifeboat Inn
The Lifeboat Inn is a harbourside pub that offers a warm welcome with unbeatable sea views. Big windows and plenty of comfy seating make it ideal for whiling away an afternoon. Hearty pub classics and fresh local seafood fill the menu.
It’s the perfect place to relax after exploring St Ives’ cobbled streets.
Best for: fish and chips, watching sport, sitting by the fire in the Winter.
LOCATION MAP: Wharf Rd, Saint Ives TR26 1LF
Click here to visit The Lifeboat Inn website >>
3. The Union Inn
Just off Fore Street, The Union Inn is a lively, welcoming pub with a strong community feel. Expect well-kept beers, hearty food and a cheerful buzz, especially when there’s music or sport on.
It’s a proper town-centre spot where you can soak up the friendly side of St Ives life.
LOCATION MAP: 20 Fore St, Saint Ives TR26 1AB
Click here to visit The Union Inn website >>
4. The Castle Inn
The Castle Inn is one of St Ives’ most traditional pubs, brimming with character and atmosphere. A haven for real ale lovers, it’s known for its cosy interior, friendly locals and regular live music.
If you’re after an authentic Cornish pub experience, this is the place to linger over a pint.
Best for: Liz's Quizzes every Monday and live music. They also often show the sports and have karaoke. They do good food too!
LOCATION MAP: 16 Fore St, Saint Ives TR26 1AB
Click here to visit The Castle Inn facebook page >>
5. The Golden Lion
The Golden Lion keeps things simple in the best possible way. A warm welcome, a decent pint and a cosy, traditional setting. It has recently been taken over by new people and has had a very blue makeover!
Popular with locals, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxed drink and a chat in easygoing surroundings.
Best for: the little beer garden at the back!
LOCATION MAP: Market Pl, Saint Ives TR26 1RZ
6. The Queen's Hotel
In the heart of town on the High Street, The Queen’s Hotel blends classic pub charm with a modern Cornish twist.
Known for its friendly buzz, well-kept ales and creative takes on pub favourites, it’s a great spot for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re after a relaxed lunch or a lively evening drink, The Queen’s delivers a stylish but down-to-earth St Ives welcome.
Best for: Gastropub food, showing the sports, pool table and nice fire in the Winter!
LOCATION MAP: High St, Saint Ives TR26 1RR
Click here to visit the Queen's Hotel facebook page >>
7. The Three Ferrets
Full of charm and very much a locals’ haunt, The Three Ferrets offers a friendly, down-to-earth welcome.
With pool, darts and plenty of banter, it’s a proper old-school pub where you can experience a slice of St Ives life beyond the tourist trail.
Best for: decent priced drinks, sports, lively vibe on weekends.
LOCATION MAP: 17 Chapel St, Saint Ives TR26 2LR
Click here to visit The Three Ferrets facebook page>>
8. The Kettle N Wink
Tucked beneath The Western Hotel, The Kettle 'n' Wink is a quirky little pub with plenty of personality.
Known for its live music, singalongs and late-night vibe, it’s an intimate spot that comes alive in the evenings. A hidden gem if you fancy a night out with a bit of character.
Best for: Friday nights Open Mic Night.
LOCATION MAP: Gabriel St, Saint Ives TR26 2LU
Click here to visit the Kettle n Wink website >>
9. The Pilchard Press Alehouse
Tucked away on the backstreets of St Ives, The Pilchard Press Alehouse is St Ives’ first micropub and a real hidden treasure.
Small, simple and full of charm, it focuses on quality over frills. It has an ever-changing line-up of local real ales and ciders served straight from the cask.
With its cosy atmosphere and friendly chat, it’s the kind of place where you come for a pint and end up staying for the company.
Best for: real ale drinkers
LOCATION MAP: Wharf Rd, Saint Ives TR26 1LF
Click here to visit the Pilchard Press Alehouse website >>
10. The Cornish Arms
A little way out of town on the Carbis Bay road, The Cornish Arms offers a warm, traditional welcome with plenty of space to relax.
Known for its friendly service, hearty portions and well-kept beers, it’s a great spot for families or anyone looking for a laid-back pub meal.
With a big garden for sunny days and a cosy bar for cooler evenings, it’s a proper all-rounder.
LOCATION MAP: St Ives Rd, Carbis Bay, Saint Ives TR26 2PG
Click here to visit The Cornish Arms website >>
11. Halsetown Inn
Just outside St Ives in the historic village of Halsetown, this charming country inn is worth the short trip.
Once built to serve workers in the local mines, it now combines rustic character with a menu full of seasonal, locally sourced dishes.
With open fires, a friendly buzz and a reputation for excellent food, The Halsetown Inn makes a lovely change of scene from the town centre.
LOCATION MAP: Halsetown, St Ives TR26 3NA
Click here to visit the Halsetown Inn website >>
12. Balnoon Inn
On the road between St Ives and Penzance, The Balnoon Inn is a welcoming, family-run pub with plenty of Cornish character.
Expect generous home-cooked meals, a good pint and a relaxed atmosphere, whether you’re stopping off on a countryside walk or heading back from the beach.
With its hearty hospitality and down-to-earth feel, it’s a true local gem.
LOCATION MAP: Old Coach Road St Ives TR26 3JB
Click here to visit the Balnoon Inn website >>
