September holidays in St Ives
6th June 2026
We love September in St Ives. The sun’s still out and the festival’s on, but everything just feels calmer.
It’s many people’s favourite time of year to holiday in Cornwall – and here are some great reasons to head down to St Ives in September.
There’s a party going on: St Ives September Festival
The St Ives September Festival is a two-week celebration of music, arts and culture that takes over the whole town – and it’s one of the best reasons to visit Cornwall in the autumn.
Born from a collaboration between local artists and musicians back in 1977, the festival has grown into a lively programme of music, arts, and cultural events with free street entertainment on both opening and closing Saturdays
The St Ives September Festival 2026 runs from 12-26 September.
The programme spans classical and contemporary music, visual art exhibitions, talks by authors and artists, film screenings, and hands-on workshops – and many events are free
This year’s music line-up already includes some great names: Pam Ayres performs on 22nd September, there’s a Celebrating George Michael show on 19th September, and Molly Hocking – the former The Voice winner – plays St Ia Church on 20th September. Ocean Colour Scene’s Dan Sealey, Harleymoon Kemp, and The Oggymen are also on the bill.
Local artists open their private studios to visitors through the “Open Studios” programme – a brilliant way to explore St Ives’ creative heritage connected to figures like Barbara Hepworth and Bernard Leach.
Check the full programme and book tickets early – headline shows at the Theatre and Arts Club tend to sell out.
The weather’s warm for walking
The average temperature is typically mid-teens, and there’s always the chance of an Indian summer… Pack both beach clothes and waterproofs, and you’ll be set. Flowers still bloom on the cliffs, and it’s a lovely month to explore the South West Coast Path.
There are some brilliant walks starting right from Polmanter – a challenging hike westwards towards Zennor and the wild moors, a gentler stroll east towards Lelant, with the train back to St Ives or the popular route into St Ives itself, and out to the sea views at Clodgy Point.
And the sea’s warm too!
September sea temperatures in St Ives reach around 16oC; and with the summer crowds thinning out it’s a fantastic time to enjoy the beach. Dog restrictions vary in September – always worth checking the Cornwall Council website for the latest. In St Ives, Bamaluz beach is open for dogs year-round, and much quieter than August.
Travelling is easier
If you’re bringing your motorhome or caravan, you’ll find shorter queues, more parking and a far more relaxed journey down. The M5 and beyond are noticeably calmer once the school holidays are over.
Coming by public transport? Take the main line to St Erth (around five hours from London Paddington) then hop on the scenic branch line to St Ives – its one of the most beautiful short train journeys in the country. From St Ives station, its a short taxi ride up to Polmanter or a walk into town. See GWR’s website for times and tickets. National Express also runs services to nearby Penzance.
Everything’s still open, but nothing’s packed
Seasonal attractions stay open until at least October half term, and the same goes for St Ives’ shops, bars and restaurants. The festival brings a brilliant buzz to town – September can actually be one of the liveliest months for an evening out.
Source: Alex May Photography
There’s plenty to do at Polmanter
We don’t shut down in September either. The Stable Bar stays open with live music, quiz nights and bingo. Sunday Roasts return in the second half of the month, with homemade roasts at both lunch (12-3pm) and dinner (5-8pm). The pool is open through to mid-September, and the bus into St Ives continues running – check Royal Buses timetable for the dates you’re staying, as services will reduce through the month, as the site and town gets quieter.
Staying at Polmanter in September
We have three ways to stay, and all of them work brilliantly for a festival trip.
Touring and camping – Take a look at availability on our online interactive map and book your pitch.
Safari glamping tents – New for 2026, our six luxury safari tents are the perfect base for the festival. Each tent is fully equipped with a kitchen, proper beds, and everything you need – just turn up and enjoy. September is a wonderful time to glamp, with warm evenings and clear skies. Named after Cornish beaches, they sleep up to five and are ideal for couples or families wanting something a step above camping.
Self-catering cottages and apartments – Senara and Morwenna are hot tub cottages sleeping up to 6, with private gardens, EV charging and dog-friendly. Apartments Kerenza and Demelza sleep up to 4 and also worth a look too. September availability goes quickly – check what’s left.
Any questions, our Reception team are happy to help. See you in September!