Train
Bus
Hayle to Saint Ives
Updated: 30 May 2026
The journey from Hayle to St Ives covers approximately 7 miles along the scenic Cornish coast. You can take the St Ives Bay Line, a branch of the Great Western Railway, which offers stunning views of the estuary. Alternatively, local bus services operate frequently between the two towns. The trip is short, usually taking under 20 minutes by either mode. It is a popular route for tourists visiting the Tate St Ives gallery.
Total Distance: 11 km driving distance, 9 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Train, taking 15 minutes from St Erth station.
Cheapest Way
Bus, costing approximately £2 for a single ticket.
Compare Hayle to Saint Ives Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 15 mins | 25 mins |
| Avg Price | £4 - £6 | £2 - £4 |
| Operator | Great Western Railway | First Kernow |
| Route | St Ives Bay Line from St Erth to St Ives station. | A3074 road via Lelant. |
| Tip | Sit on the right side of the train for the best views of the beach. | Buses are often more frequent than trains during peak summer hours. |
Travel Tips
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Train TicketsBuy your ticket at the St Erth station machine to avoid queues.
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ParkingSt Ives parking is limited; use the St Erth park and ride.
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WalkingThe coastal path between Hayle and St Ives is a beautiful 5-mile hike.
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Peak TimesAvoid traveling during the mid-morning rush in July and August.
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LuggageKeep luggage minimal as trains can get very crowded.
Safety Tips
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Tide TimesCheck tide tables if walking along the Hayle estuary.
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Sun ProtectionThe coastal sun is strong; wear SPF even on cloudy days.
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Crowd SafetyStay alert in busy harbour areas during peak tourist season.
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EmergencyDial 999 for any urgent medical or police assistance.
People Also Ask
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Is there a direct train?Yes, the St Ives Bay Line runs directly from St Erth to St Ives.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic.
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Can I walk to St Ives?Yes, the South West Coast Path connects Hayle to St Ives.
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Are dogs allowed on the train?Yes, dogs are permitted on GWR trains for free.
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Is the bus frequent?Buses run roughly every 30 minutes during the day.
Quick Info
- From Hayle, Cornwall, United Kingdom
- To Saint Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to September for clear views of the Atlantic coastline.
Things to Do in Saint Ives
1
Tate St Ives
A world-class art gallery overlooking Porthmeor Beach. It features modern art inspired by the Cornish landscape.
2
Porthmeor Beach
A premier surfing beach in St Ives. It is perfect for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months.
3
Barbara Hepworth Museum
The former home and studio of the famous sculptor. It contains a beautiful sculpture garden.
4
St Ives Harbour
The heart of the town with fishing boats and local shops. It is ideal for a traditional Cornish pasty.
Tags
Hayle to St Ives train
St Ives branch line
bus from Hayle to St Ives
Cornwall travel guide
St Ives transport
Hayle travel
scenic train routes Cornwall
cheap travel Cornwall
