St Ives is a seaside town packed with artistic charm, natural beauty, and memorable experiences. Its unique blend of galleries, sculptor gardens, and scenic flights makes it an ideal spot for exploring through guided tours. We’re particularly fond of the Porthmeor Beach: Tate St. Ives Gallery Entry Ticket for its rich display of local art and the chance to learn about the creative life of Cornwall. Or, if you’re after a more personal artistic connection, the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden offers a glimpse into the life and works of one of Britain’s most renowned sculptors. For thrill-seekers, the Cornwall Helicopter Pleasure Flight provides a breathtaking way to see the coastline from above.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights three distinct tours. The first combines art and history with the Tate Gallery experience. The second offers an intimate look at Barbara Hepworth’s home and how her environment inspired her work. The third lets you soar over Cornwall’s stunning coast in a helicopter, perfect for those craving excitement and panoramic views. Each experience offers a different way to enjoy St Ives—whether you prefer cultural pursuits or adrenaline-fueled adventures.
1. Porthmeor Beach: Tate St. Ives Gallery Entry Ticket
At number one, we have the Tate St. Ives Gallery, a must-see for art lovers. This tour provides entry to the museum, along with the chance to explore the works from local artists in a setting that celebrates Cornwall’s artistic spirit. Priced at around $18.86, it’s a budget-friendly way to spend part of your day soaking up contemporary and traditional art pieces.
What makes this experience stand out is the gallery’s history as the first of its kind in the UK, emphasizing regional talent and innovative exhibitions. Visitors often mention how they enjoy taking their time to truly absorb the art, with one reviewer calling it “taking your time” as a highlight. The Tate’s location on Porthmeor Beach adds to the appeal—combining art with the sound of waves and salty air. The gallery is especially good if you want a relaxed, culturally enriching experience that complements your scenic surroundings.
Bottom Line: This entry offers a well-rounded, affordable dose of Cornwall’s creative scene, perfect for art aficionados and casual visitors alike.
2. Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden: entry to site
Number two on our list is the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, a serene gem for anyone interested in sculpture and artistic inspiration. The tour includes entry to her former home and garden, where you can see how her environment influenced her iconic works. Priced at $13.47, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering that the site has remained largely unchanged since her time in St Ives.
Walking through the lush, sub-tropical garden reveals sculptures set among exotic plants, creating a backdrop that feels like stepping into an artist’s private paradise. Visitors frequently comment on the ambiance—it’s a place that fosters reflection and admiration for Hepworth’s craftsmanship. The museum displays her selected works, giving a personal glimpse into her creative process. The fact that the site remains authentic and unchanged makes it particularly appealing for those wanting a genuine connection to her life and art.
If you’re drawn to sculpture or creative spaces, this tour provides an intimate look into Hepworth’s world, making it a highlight for art enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, inspiring visit that beautifully combines the artist’s life with her landscape, ideal for lovers of sculpture and tranquility.
3. Cornwall: Helicopter Pleasure Flight
For those craving a thrilling adventure, the Cornwall Helicopter Pleasure Flight is the ultimate way to see the coastline in style. This tour offers the experience of flying in a helicopter, soaring at around 1,000 feet above the ground. The flight takes you over stunning coastal scenery, with your pilot pointing out local landmarks, making it both an exciting ride and an informative tour.
Priced based on the flight duration and available options, this experience is rated 5/5, reflecting how well it delivers on that wow factor. The views are truly breathtaking, perfect for capturing stunning photos and creating memories that last a lifetime. The sensation of hovering and accelerating in a helicopter adds an adrenaline rush you won’t find in museums or galleries. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a sense of adventure—ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for something different.
The only downside? The cost may be higher than other options, but for the experience and views, many find it well worth the investment.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating way to see Cornwall’s coast from above, perfect for adventure lovers and photography enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Best Tour in St Ives
Picking between these tours depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you want a low-cost, enriching cultural experience, the Tate St. Ives Gallery offers a relaxed way to enjoy local art. For a more personal artistic connection, the Barbara Hepworth Museum provides an intimate peek into her life and work. If adventure and spectacular scenery appeal to you, the helicopter ride is unmatched for its breathtaking views and adrenaline.
Consider your physical activity level: museums and galleries require minimal walking, while helicopter flights demand no physical exertion but a willingness to embrace heights. Budget-wise, the sculpture garden and Tate entry are more affordable, while the helicopter flight is a splurge for the experience of a lifetime. It’s best to book early, especially for the helicopter, as flight slots fill quickly.
In summary, if you’re a culture lover, the Tate or Hepworth tours are excellent choices. For adventure seekers, the helicopter flight promises unforgettable vistas. And for those on a budget, both art tours offer rich experiences at a reasonable price.
Final Thoughts
St Ives offers a diverse range of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re drawn to art, sculpture, or seeking a thrill in the skies. For a relaxed cultural experience, the Tate Gallery is ideal; for a deep dive into one of Britain’s most famous sculptors, the Hepworth Museum is perfect. And if you want to see Cornwall from above, the helicopter ride provides an adrenaline rush and spectacular photo opportunities.
No matter your choice, these experiences can add real depth and excitement to your visit. To ensure a smooth trip, consider booking in advance, especially for the helicopter flights. With so many memorable options, your time in St Ives will be packed with inspiring sights and adventures.