This picturesque line is truly the best way to arrive in St. Ives and to visit the Tate Gallery!

Opened by Prince Charles in 1993, with its changing displays of work by artists who lived or stayed in the town, the tate Gallery has brought an enormous fillip to the town. Hundreds of thousands have enjoyed the paintings, sculptures and ceramics, as well as the permanent display of work by sculptor Dame Barbara Hepworth.

Join the branch line from the main line station of St. Erth, or use the Summer park and Ride facilities at Lelant Saltings. Frequent services operate into St. Ives - a special fare includes up to 5 people and parking.

Soak in the dramatic views as the line sweeps alongside the golden sands of Hayle Towans, through Carbis Bay and onto St. Ives with panoramic views of craggy cliffs and the colourful harbour.

The little lanes and streets that criss-cross St Ives can best be appreciated on foot. Explore into the heart of this historic and picturesque town with its many shops, galleries, pubs and restaurants. Most trains run directly between St. Ives and Penzance, so you can visit the north and south coasts of Cornwall in just 20 minutes, enjoying spectacular views along the way.

Useful links:

• St Ives web site
• One St Ives - a guide to the town
• St Ives Bay Line timetable