Experiences make memories. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, be inspired with our selection of the best experiences that UNA has to offer.
St Ives Surf School
We have partnered with St Ives Surf School as it is regarded as one of the best places to learn to surf in Cornwall. Their diverse team of saltwater specialists are very proud of the adventure playground they call home. At St Ives surf school, they provide bespoke surf lessons and coaching, paddle boarding tuition, sea kayaking tours and coasteering adventures as good as anywhere in the UK. All their activities operate from two beautiful beach locations in the heart of St Ives.
Tate St Ives
Inspiring art and breathtaking scenery meet at Tate St Ives. The iconic gallery overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and showcases some of the best-loved British artworks of the twentieth century alongside an ever-changing programme of exhibitions embracing the best of British and International modern and contemporary art.
Diorama Days Landscape Photography Workshop
Explore the wild, west coast of Cornwall, just north of St Ives. Stunning beaches, hidden coves and towering cliffs set amongst Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Join this spectacular coastal adventure, aimed at inspiring your creativity and technical skills. This workshop is a perfect break from your usual routine, a golden opportunity to connect with your passion for photography. Bespoke mentoring, with a uniquely constructive spirit, will empower you to transform your photography.
Lizard Adventures
With over 30 years of experience in outdoor adventure holidays for families, groups and individuals, Lizard Adventure knows how to create the perfect balance between safety and fun. Whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction or a complete adrenalin rush, all of their activities will give you memories that last a lifetime. They offer coasteering, kayaking, paddleboarding, climbing and survival skills sessions at various locations on the Lizard Peninsula and in Hayle.
Kennack Diving
To appreciate the beauty of these Cornish waters you will need to dive beneath the surface of the water. At Kennack Diving, a PADI five-star resort on the Lizard peninsula, you can take the first steps towards achieving this goal. If you are aged from eight to 80, and are reasonably fit and happy in the water, you can try out what it is like to don full scuba equipment and swim underwater, in the safe environment of the centre’s own heated swimming pool. Anyone over the age of 12 years can then follow this up with a trial dive in the sea.
St Michael’s Way
St Michael’s Way passes down the side of Una St Ives and is a one-day coast-to-coast Micro-Pilgrimage. It traverses the north-south line between Penwith and the world. It offers a pilgrimage of ancient stones, lost miracles, and holy wells – through a land of saints and giants. The route was created after the discovery of ancient shipping rosters proving that pilgrims historically came to Lelant by sea on their way to Santiago de Compostela, and travelled over land to Marazion to avoid the waters of Land’s End.
St Michael’s Way is the only pilgrimage route in Britain that is officially part of a European Cultural Route. It is a genuine British leg of the Camino to Santiago! St Michael’s Way connects five churches, four holy wells (plus one lost), two hillforts, two standing stones, two disappeared chapels, a monumental needle, a nature reserve, and a river both near the source and joining the sea – set amongst incredible scenery and unique countryside, deep in the heart of Old Cornwall.
The Mines at Botallack
One of Cornwall’s most iconic places, and a location in BBC’s Poldark. The famous Crowns engine houses of Botallack Mine cling dramatically to the foot of the cliffs.
Family time
St Ives Treasure Trail
Calling all super sleuths! Your self-guided murder mystery investigation takes place in the heart of St Ives. You’ll be searching high and low along the cobbled streets, winding past medieval inns, dazzling art galleries and quaint fisherman’s cottages, uncovering the history and hidden gems with each step.
Paradise Park and Jungle Barn*
A wildlife sanctuary with tropical birds in exotic gardens and a huge Jungle Barn indoor play area for children. Set around sheltered Victorian gardens, it is a great day out for all the family. Located in Hayle, four miles from Carbis Bay.
Gardens
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens
Restored large scale valley gardens with stupendous views over St Michael’s Mount. Sub-tropical planting with internationally important artworks set in a beautiful wooded landscape. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a lead throughout the gardens and in the outside seating area of Tremenheere Kitchen. Check the website for opening times/prices.
Chygurno
Chygurno is a dramatic garden carved into the cliff edge, teetering over stunning Lamorna Cove. This waterside garden tiers down in steep steps and terraces to meet sheltered woodland. A striking range of vibrant species stands out against a rugged backdrop, and as well as the spectacular sea view. Chygurno also boasts a unique decked vantage point that puts you on eye level with the treetops.
Beaches
With a plethora of beaches within easy reach of Una it is hard to narrow it down to just a few, however, below is a list of some of the most convenient and our favourites.
Carbis Bay – 1.2 miles walk from Una St Ives, with small parking area nearby.
Porthkidney Sands – dog-friendly 2.2 mile walk from Una St Ives.
Porthmeor Beach – 2.1 miles from Carbis Bay.
Mexico Towans – Dog friendly 6.4 miles from Carbis Bay.
Praa Sands – 12.1 miles from Carbis Bay.
Porthcurno Beach – 18.1 miles from Carbis Bay.
*reopening date TBC
