We came down to St Ives for a relaxing winter break. Admiral Cottage ticked all the boxes for us - right in the middle of the town with easy access to shops and restaurants but tucked away and really quiet in February. We parked in a long-stay car park a few minutes walk up the hill, which involved a long flight of steps - it was fine on arrival, but it would have been better to pack smaller loads than one big suitcase, for the return journey.
The cold winds made us very glad of the central heating which kept the cottage cosy, and being able to watch over the sunlit harbour with a hot drink and knees against the radiator was the best way to warm up after a bracing walk! The cottage is very well equipped and comfortable, and feels light and airy.
St Ives had plenty going on even in February; we looked round many art galleries, including the Tate, and there was a big choice of restaurants. We found the perfect place to eat every night at the bottom of the steps, in Fore Street - the Seafood Cafe - and a few paces away from it the Allotment Deli provided us with fresh bread, fruit and delicious cakes. There were lots of fashion and jewelry shops, two childrenswear shops and a great little bookshop, with a Coop about 10 minutes walk for general groceries. In all, St Ives and Admiral Cottage made a great winter break for us.