Best Beer Gardens near St Ives
With the football season excitement building and summer arriving in Cornwall, beer gardens around St Ives are ready to welcome locals and visitors alike. If you are planning a Father’s Day escape to Cornwall, these are some of the best outdoor pubs and terraces to enjoy during your stay.
Beer Gardens & Terraces in Walking Distance of St Ives
If you’re looking to stay in town, The Golden Lion, tucked just off Market Place, has a compact sheltered courtyard that offers a quieter spot away from the busy streets, while the recently refurbished Pedn Olva boasts expanded outdoor terraces and a rooftop deck with stunning views across Porthminster Beach. Both are perfect for a relaxed afternoon drink before exploring the harbour, beaches, and shops around town.
The Sloop Inn and Upper Deck
No list of St Ives pubs would be complete without mentioning The Sloop Inn. Thought to date back to 1312, it is believed to be one of Cornwall’s oldest inns and remains one of the busiest and most atmospheric spots in town.
Positioned directly opposite the harbour slipway, The Sloop’s outdoor benches are almost always buzzing with activity. There is something special about sitting here watching fishing boats, paddleboarders, and beachgoers pass by while enjoying a local ale.
Just behind the main pub is The Upper Deck, an over-18s beer garden and sun terrace with its own cosy bar area. Slightly tucked away from the harbour crowds, it offers a more laid-back setting for after-dinner drinks or a relaxed evening catching up with family.
The Watermill, Lelant
A short drive from St Ives takes you into the quieter villages surrounding the bay, where the beer gardens become larger, greener, and even more family friendly.
The Watermill in Lelant is full of character. Once a riding stable and working mill, the pub now combines rustic charm with spacious outdoor seating beside a mill stream and working waterwheel.
Its large garden is ideal for families celebrating Father’s Day together, especially with younger children thanks to the recently installed play equipment on site.
The Old Quay House, Lelant
For families searching for one of the biggest and best beer gardens near St Ives, The Old Quay House in Lelant is difficult to beat.
Its expansive decking and pagoda overlook the beautiful Hayle Estuary, creating a peaceful setting that feels miles away from the busier tourist hotspots. The large outdoor area makes it particularly popular for multi-generational gatherings, and there is a substantial play park to keep children entertained.
One of the best things about visiting is how easy it is to reach. The pub sits within walking distance of both Lelant and Lelant Saltings stations on the scenic St Ives branch line, making it ideal if you want to leave the car behind and enjoy a relaxed day out.
The Balnoon Inn, St Ives
Located on the old coach road leading from Halsetown towards Lelant Downs, The Balnoon Inn offers a completely different pace compared with the lively harbour pubs in town.
Surrounded by countryside, its quiet garden terrace provides a peaceful setting for outdoor dining and drinks away from the crowds. It is ideal for visitors looking to enjoy a slower, more traditional Cornish pub experience during their Father’s Day stay.
The relaxed atmosphere and rural surroundings make it especially appealing after a busy day exploring St Ives and the coastline.
Weatherspoons at the Bluff, Riviere Towans, Hayle
Although now operated by Wetherspoons, the recently re-imagined Bluff Inn is far from your typical pub setting. Its clifftop location overlooking St Ives Bay delivers some truly spectacular panoramic views over St Ives Bay.
The huge outdoor licensed beer garden is already proving a major summer favourite, particularly for families thanks to its sandy play corner for children. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas too, making it a convenient stop after coastal walks.
Plan Your Father’s Day Escape with Orange Roofs
Father’s Day in Cornwall is about more than just a meal or a pint in the sunshine. It is a chance to bring generations together, create lasting memories, and enjoy quality time by the coast.
At Orange Roofs, we specialise in exceptional St Ives holidays with luxury 5-star cottages designed for families of all sizes. Whether you are planning a weekend escape, a summer holiday, or a special Father’s Day gathering, our carefully selected holiday homes provide the perfect base for exploring the very best pubs, beaches, restaurants, and coastal walks Cornwall has to offer.
After an afternoon spent relaxing in one of St Ives’ best beer gardens, there is nothing better than returning to a beautiful coastal retreat just moments from the sea.
Browse our collection of luxury St Ives holiday cottages and start planning your perfect Father’s Day stay in Cornwall today.