Tate St Ives

The artwork almost takes second place to the surroundings at the stunning Tate St Ives, which hovers above Porthmeor Beach. Built in 1993, the gallery contains work by celebrated local artists, including Terry Frost, Patrick Heron and Barbara Hepworth, and hosts regular special exhibitions. On the top floor there's a stylish cafe-bar with imaginative bistro food and some of the best sea views in St Ives. A joint ticket with the Barbara Hepworth museum can be purchased for adult/child £8.75/4.50.

There are plenty more galleries around town; at the Sloop Craft Market you'll find a treasure trove of tiny artists' studios selling everything from handmade jewellery to driftwood furniture.