Spotlight on: Polmanter Touring Park

Mention Cornwall to most people and they will tell you that you should definitely visit St Ives – and for good reason.

This popular coastal town has a choice of lovely beaches, a bustling harbour and a plethora of shops and places to eat – sprinkled along the seafront and also among the quaint narrow lanes. Anyone who appreciates art and sculpture should head to the Tate St Ives gallery and Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, too.

For me, a campsite within walking distance of St Ives is a perfect choice! Polmanter Touring Park is just a 30-minute walk from St Ives and also offers a shuttle bus service in high season. Out of season there is the option of the local bus service, with a stop in nearby Halsetown – handy for anyone who doesn’t fancy the uphill walk back to site.

There’s plenty to do on site, too. Choose from a dip in the outdoor pool (open end May to mid Sept), something tasty to eat at the on-site bar and restaurant, or pamper yourself in the spa treatment rooms.

Facilities comprise toilets, showers and family shower rooms, all with underfloor heating, plus a launderette, and this dog-friendly site has an exercise area, small agility course and a dog shower. For longer leg stretches, the South West Coast Path can be accessed in St Ives with walks west towards Zennor or east towards Carbis Bay.

Grass or hardstanding pitches with electric are available, along with multi-serviced pitches with additional fresh water, drainage and TV hook-up.

The impressive reception building houses a well-stocked shop. As the first thing you see when you check in at Polmanter, the reception really gives a wow factor, which will extend to everything else you encounter while on your holiday here.

Polmanter Touring Park
Halsetown, St Ives, Cornwall TR26 3LX
01736 795640

This site review appeared in MMM magazine, March 2024 issue, written by Claire Tupholme