St. Ives Landmarks and Monuments

(St. Ives, Cornwall, England, UK)



Photo taken outside St. Ives GuildhallWhilst there are only a handful of conspicuous man-made landmarks within the town of St. Ives, those on offer have an especially interesting past.

The Church of St. Ia is a grand building, dominating the winding streets that surround the church itself.

Another intriguing structure in St. Ives is the Knill Monument, which is a tall conical structure, visible from the coastline.

Every five years, the mayor, ten girls and two widows dance around the Knill Monument as part of a historic ceremony.



Picture showing St. Ia's Church

St. Ia's Church

Address: Market Place, St. Ives, Cornwall, England, UK
One of the most historic landmarks in the town of St. Ives, this magnificent church dates back to the beginning of the 15th century and is well-known for its Madonna and Child sculpture, which is displayed within its Lady Chapel. Also of interest, St. Ia's Church features a tall tower which is around 24 metres / 80 feet high and is built from enormous Cornish granite blocks. Other highlights at the church include a mid-19th century stained-glass window and an unusual asymmetrical archway.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Knill Monument

Address: Worras Hill, St. Ives, Cornwall, England, UK
Dating back to the latter part of the 18th century, the Knill Monument is a particularly historic and eye-catching granite structure in St. Ives and was originally commissioned by the local and rather eccentric mayor at that time, John Knill. Many people believe that John Knill was an extremely successful smuggler and that the monument was built as a useful reference point for his arriving ships, due to its elevated location next to Carbis Bay.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free