A coastal village known for its upscale seafood and picturesque beaches has been identified as the happiest place in the nation.
When selecting a perfect holiday destination, the elusive factor of ‘good vibes’ plays a crucial role. The measure often used to gauge this is self-reported happiness, which is what was assessed by holidaycottages.co.uk .
A survey conducted by the holiday company encompassed over 12,000 individuals across the UK to identify the towns and villages that evoke a sense of contentment among the residents. St Ives, a charming coastal town in Cornwall, emerged as the top ‘happy place’ in the UK, closely followed by Keswick in Cumbria and Whitby in North Yorkshire.
Leading the rankings is the picturesque town of St Ives, often recognized as the best seaside town in the UK. This idyllic spot in Cornwall is celebrated for its vibrant art scene, quaint alleys, and a diverse range of dining options.
St Ives has long been a haven for artists attracted by its natural beauty. The town is home to the Tate St Ives art gallery, cleverly integrated into a cliffside with panoramic views of the sea. An essential visit is the Barbara Hepworth Museum, dedicated to the acclaimed sculptor, featuring her remarkable artworks in the museum’s gardens.
Situated amidst seven stunning beaches within walking distance, St Ives offers a postcard-perfect setting with colorful fishing boats adorning the coast and breathtaking vistas of the rugged Cornish shore. Each beach near St Ives presents a unique atmosphere, like Porthminster Beach, a vast stretch of golden sand tucked beneath verdant cliffs, perfect for relaxation.
Porthgwidden Beach, another hidden gem, nestled between the headland and harbor, is renowned as the most tranquil beach in town, ideal for snorkeling with its vibrant beach huts providing great photo opportunities. For nature enthusiasts, daily boat tours aboard the ‘Dolly P’ offer seal watching at Seal Island or a chance to admire the stunning Cornish coastline.
Despite its happiness accolade, St Ives is not without its challenges. A long-time resident, Rebecca Quick, expressed concerns about rude tourists, vacant second homes, profit-driven landlords, and poverty issues in the town.
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