St Ives Island

The Island was originally a promontory fort which was reputed to had once a protective ditch and rampart. The old name for the island was Pendinas, the name meaning fortified headland. The headland is connected to the mainland by an isthmus.

Pendinas At Low Tide

The Coastguard's look out can be reached via the path. From here the views are spectacular and often used by birdwatchers. The Island is a stopping off point for migratory birds which can include unusual and rare species. There is the additional benefit of good sea views where dolphins and porpoises can be seen. Such a good viewpoint was useful in the days of smuggling, and it was employed by the Preventative Men.

There is the chapel of St Nicholas on the Island. This is an old chapel site going back to the 15TH century. The chapel was demolished in 1904 but rebuilt in 1911.

Chapel of St Nicholas

St Ives Watch Station

On the island there is a private residence called the Battery. During the Napoleonic Wars there was a battery here which had three canon emplacements.

This area has been a graveyard for shipping and the remains of SS Alba can been seen at low tide. Close to the coastguard’s lookout there used to be a pharos. This was a fire lit at night to warn shipping of the dangers and to safely guide ships into St Ives.

To get to the Island it is best to park at the Island car park which is fortunately close by and provides day parking.