St Ives is a stunning coastal town, and indulging in a traditional Cornish cream tea is a must-do activity. Here’s a roundup of the best places to enjoy a cream tea in St Ives, complete with review ratings.
Olives Café
Olives Café, nestled in Island Square, exudes a cozy, rustic charm with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff are often praised for their attentiveness, offering a selection of vegan and gluten-free scones. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing cream tea, with both indoor and outdoor seating for people-watching in this quiet corner of St Ives.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor)
Location: Island Square
Vegan and gluten-free options available.
We found the 5 Best Cornish Cream Tea in St Ives 2
The Yellow Canary Café
With its vintage, homely décor, The Yellow Canary Café has been a beloved fixture on Fore Street for nearly 50 years. The staff are accommodating, particularly attentive to dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegan options. Its cozy interior is complemented by the delightful selection of Cornish treats, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor)
Location: 12 Fore Street
Vegan and gluten-free options available.
Porthmeor Beach Café
Porthmeor Beach Café boasts a sleek, modern interior with heated outdoor alcoves offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The friendly and professional staff ensure a relaxed dining experience, ideal for enjoying a cream tea by the sea. Its picturesque setting just below the Tate St Ives makes it a standout location for both food and scenery.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor)
Location: Porthmeor Beach
Dog-friendly.
Market Place Tea Rooms
Market Place Tea Rooms, perched on Lifeboat Hill, provides a traditional tearoom setting with vintage décor and sea views. The staff are frequently praised for their warmth and attentiveness, contributing to the tearoom’s relaxed atmosphere. This dog-friendly café offers freshly baked scones and caters to vegan preferences, making it a favourite among visitors seeking a quiet retreat.
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.7/5 on Facebook)
Location: Lifeboat Hill
Vegan options available.
Scoff Troff Café
Scoff Troff Café offers a casual, eclectic interior, perfect for families and groups. Known for its hearty menu and friendly service, it provides a wide variety of food, including vegan and gluten-free options. Situated in central St Ives, this bustling café is a great choice for a quick bite or leisurely cream tea, making it a versatile and welcoming spot for all.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor)
Location: Market Place
Vegan and gluten-free options available.
What Makes a Great Cornish Cream Tea?
In Cornwall, tradition says to spread the jam first, then the clotted cream. Pair it with freshly baked scones and a pot of tea for the perfect afternoon indulgence. St Ives offers something for everyone to enjoy this delicious tradition.
