Lifeboat Inn St Ives  Exterior photoLifeboat Inn St Ives  Interior photoLifeboat Inn St Ives  Interior photo
Book on our site
Save up to 10% more
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From230US$ /night
Check-in
02Jun2026Select date
Check-out
03Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Wharf Road, St Ives (Cornwall), United Kingdom, TR26 1LF
-
Close to the harbour
Great
8.4
8.7
/10
5.0
4.1
/5

Lifeboat Inn - A harbourside pub with sea views, dog-friendly accommodations, and locally sourced cuisine

Lifeboat Inn is a traditional harbourside pub in St Ives, featuring a roaring log fire and panoramic views of the working port. The hotel offers five bedrooms and two apartments, blending period charm with contemporary style, including family-friendly accommodations with bunk beds. A freshly prepared breakfast includes options like overnight oats, cooked dishes, and local cheeses, while the on-site restaurant serves reimagined pub classics and seasonal seafood specials. Guests can explore nearby attractions such as Porthmeor Beach, Tate St Ives, and the Barbara Hepworth Museum, all within a five-minute walk. The Lifeboat Inn also provides free Wi-Fi, luxury toiletries, and dog-friendly rooms for an additional £15 per night.

Pros

The harbourside location offers direct views of St Ives' working port and easy access to beaches.

Dog-friendly accommodations and public areas, excluding the main restaurant.

A freshly prepared breakfast with a variety of locally sourced options.

Centrally located, within walking distance of Tate St Ives, Porthmeor Beach, and local galleries.

Cons

No on-site parking, with nearby paid options costing around £10 for 24 hours.

Some rooms are accessed via steep stairs, which may be inconvenient for guests with mobility concerns.

View all

Select your room type

Lifeboat Inn offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Signature Double
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Apartment Sea View
2 persons
595 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
One-Bedroom Apartment
2 persons
700 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Room Rates & Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Lifeboat Inn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Dining table

Bathroom

  • Washing machine
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Lifeboat Inn Location

Wharf Road, St Ives (Cornwall), United Kingdom, TR26 1LF
Map view
Wharf Road, St Ives (Cornwall), United Kingdom, TR26 1LF
Nearby
Museum
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
1900 ft
Gallery
Tate Gallery St. Ives
1900 ft
Museum
Tate St Ives
1900 ft
Church
St Ives Parish Church
400 ft
Gallery
The Penwith Gallery
900 ft
Gallery
New Craftsman Gallery
200 ft
Saint Ives TR26 1SZ
St Nicholas Chapel
1800 ft
Gallery
Porthminster Gallery
800 ft
Gallery
Salthouse Gallery
700 ft
Gallery
The Blue Bramble Gallery
1000 ft
Gallery
Art Space Gallery
800 ft
Gallery
Anima Mundi
800 ft
2 Tregenna Hill The Hole in the Wall
St. Ives Gallery
1000 ft
Museum
Capt Sir Richard Francis Burton Museum
1200 ft
Smeatons Pier
800 ft
Cemetery
Barnoon Cemetery
1000 ft
Store
I Should Coco
800 ft
Harbour
St Ives
1300 ft
Zennor
Zennor Circular Walk
1600 ft
Beach
Bamaluz Beach
2200 ft
32 Back Rd W
Norway Stores
800 ft
Porthmeor Hill
Porthmeor Beach
1000 ft
St. Ives Surf School
1000 ft
Church
Saint Leonard's Chapel
1100 ft
Store
Common Wanderer
200 ft
Gallery
Belgrave Gallery
200 ft
Store
Belgrave
200 ft
Restaurants
Smeatons Fish & Chips
100 ft
Wharf Road
Jus' Desserts
200 ft
Wharf Road
Sky's Diner
300 ft
43 Fore Street
The Cornish Bakery
400 ft
9 Fore Street
Simply Cornish
200 ft
Brig-y-don 1 Wharf Road
Pels
600 ft
Harts Building 5 The Wharf
Poppins tea room
400 ft
Cyril noall square off fore street st ives cornwall
St Ives Bakery
500 ft
52 Fore Street
Yallah Coffee Kiosk
300 ft
Wharf Road Court Arcade
Coast To Go
400 ft
Wharf Road
The Balancing Eel
600 ft
The Sloop Car Park Back Lane
Pengenna Pasties
1500 ft
9 High Street
Explore St Ives (Cornwall)
Nearby Activities and Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Tate Gallery St. Ives
7 minutes' walk
Tate St Ives showcases modern art in stunning waterfront settings with a focus on local artists.
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
7 minutes' walk
The museum features Hepworth's works and a beautiful garden, perfect for art lovers and tranquil walks.
Porthminster Beach
6 minutes' walk
Porthminster Beach is renowned for its golden sands and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and leisurely strolls.
The Saint Ives Museum
9 minutes' walk
Local history comes to life at Saint Ives Museum, featuring artifacts from the town's rich maritime past.
Surfing at Porthcurno Beach
14-minute drive
Thrilling surfing lessons are available at Porthcurno Beach, perfect for adrenaline seekers and beginners alike.
Yoga Classes at The Wellness Studio
6 minutes' walk
Relaxation and mindfulness can be found at The Wellness Studio, offering soothing yoga classes in a serene environment.
Coastal Walks on the South West Coast Path
10-minute drive
Experience breathtaking views along the South West Coast Path, suitable for hikers of all levels with varying trails.
Simply Cornish
1 minute' walk
Casual dining with delicious local specialties, including Cornish pastries. Perfect for a quick meal or snack.
The Cornish Bakery
2 minutes' walk
Traditional bakery offering freshly baked goods and savory options. A must-try for breakfast or a mid-day treat.
Smeatons Fish & Chips
1 minute' walk
Classic fish and chips served in a casual setting. Ideal for families and seafood lovers craving local flavors.
St Ives Arts Club
9 minutes' walk
A vibrant venue for live music and community events, showcasing local talent in a friendly setting.
The Salt Cellar
10-minute drive
A lively bar known for its craft cocktails and DJ nights, perfect for a fun night out with friends or new acquaintances.
Getting around
City Centre
St Ives (Cornwall)12 min  ·  3300 ft
Airports
Penzance (PZE)19 min  ·  7.7 mi
Land's End (LEQ)43 min  ·  17.5 mi
Train
St Ives train station6 min  ·  1700 ft
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:30
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Lifeboat Inn provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
7

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Lifeboat Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Lifeboat Inn enjoys a fantastic location right on the harbor, offering beautiful views. Guests frequently mention the spacious rooms and appreciate the convenience of having a fridge stocked with lagers. The breakfast is also well-regarded, with particular praise for the fruit options. Some guests have found the stairs quite steep, but overall, the inn is considered well-equipped and provides good value for money, being very close to shops and just a short walk from the beach.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 517 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
86%
Recommend
Location
9.6/10
Staff
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.8/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Great location
Spacious family room
Modern bathroom
Harbour view
Friendly staff
Cons
Check-in queue
Dirty remote
Limited kitchen facilities
Guest reviews
based on 517 reviews
8.7/10
based on 388 reviews
8.4/10
Benjamin from Germany
Family with children
Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:January 06, 2026
6/10

mixed feelings about the stay

perfect locationsteep stairsinconvenient room
the location was great, right on the waterfront.
The stairs were a real issue. They were steep and narrow, and i kept bumping into things. our room was not connected to the others we booked, so it was inconvenient for our family.
0 Helpful
riley from australia
Family with children
family room sea view
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 15, 2025
8/10

harbour view haven

harbour viewfriendly staffroom location
The location is excellent! it is right on the harbour, complete with a beautiful view and a charming atmosphere. most of all, the staff were lovely, the young woman who welcomed us was kind and professional. Her colleague serving in the dining area was very friendly and polite.
the two rooms we booked weren't connected in any way, accessible through different sides of the building. this was annoying considering we were travelling as a family of three. the tv in the rooms could do with a bit of an update.
Rooms
9/10
Our family room included one king-size bed and two twin beds. A small seating area contained a sofa and two armchairs. the bathroom featured both a bathtub and a separate shower, and complimentary toiletries were provided throughout my stay, a lovely touch.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Alex from United Kingdom
Couple
Signature Double
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 04, 2025
9.3/10

Harbourfront stay

superb locationprivate accesspicture windowroom noise
The location was superb! My signature double room offered private access, a real treat. The big picture window was fabulous. I spent hours just gazing at the sea.
The room was noisy with pub sounds and overhead footsteps, which affected my sleep. The mattress also had a slight dip.
Service
9/10
Staff members were super friendly and approachable, ready to assist with any request, I did appreciate their warm welcome and willingness to help. Their attentiveness contributed positively to my stay. the team ensured a smooth and pleasant experience.
Location
10/10
The accommodation is right on the harbour front. You can't get any closer, which offers beautiful views and immediate access to the water. Nearby, the views include the harbour beach. Car parking could be a challenge. Allocate sufficient time, especially when arriving.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast stood out. The poached eggs were lovely. I really enjoyed the meal portions. The dining area created a dog friendly, cosy environment. They offer a good selection of beers, wines, and ciders.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Luke from United Kingdom
Family with children
Family Room Sea View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 03, 2025
9.0/10

Harbour View Delight

harbour viewcomfortable bedsuper clean bathroomsteep stairs
The room had an amazing view. It overlooked the harbour. The bed was comfortable and the bathroom was super clean. Staff was always friendly and helpful.
The stairs are steep. They may not be suitable for all guests.
Facilities
8/10
The building had charm. The hotel has only seven rooms. This ensures a quiet stay.
Location
10/10
The location provides a great base. It is convenient to explore local attractions. The hotel overlooks the harbour. The central sea view apartment offered fabulous views.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast offered variety. Hot food was served hot. The staff served food quickly. The restaurant is also dog friendly, a plus for pet owners.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Mike from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 23, 2025
9/10

FANTASTIC stay!

clean roomcomfortable roomexcellent view
The room was VERY super clean and cozy. The view from my room was excellent! The breakfast menu offered varied choices and food was served hot and freshly cooked.
0 Helpful
Leo from Germany
Single
double room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:September 10, 2025
7/10

decent location and breakfast

good locationfriendly staffsteep stairsexpensive room
the location was really good it was near many restaurants and shops. the breakfast was nice it was served in the pub and the staff were smiling.
the access stairs were steep and somewhat dangerous. my inland view room was quite expensive considering what i got.
0 Helpful
Dominic from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
4 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:July 22, 2025
9/10
central positioncomfy beds
I appreciated the central position near the South West Coast Path. The beds offered great comfort, allowing me the BEST night's sleep.
The two rooms booked were not connected , as they were accessible through different sides of the building.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Lifeboat Inn
What attractions are located near Lifeboat Inn?
Nearby attractions include Tate St Ives (0.5 km), Porthmeor Beach (0.5 km), and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden (0.5 km).
What are the check-in and check-out times at Lifeboat Inn?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
What breakfast options are available at Lifeboat Inn?
Breakfast includes options such as cereals, pastries, cooked dishes, and a children's menu.
Does Lifeboat Inn have a restaurant on-site?
The hotel features a restaurant serving British cuisine with options for vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan diets.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Lifeboat Inn?
Rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and some include kitchenettes.
How far is Lifeboat Inn from the nearest airport?
Lifeboat Inn is approximately 28 km from Land's End Airport.
What are some dining options in close proximity to Lifeboat Inn?
Restaurants nearby include Peppers Pasta & Pizzeria, The Rum and Crab Shack, and Smeatons Fish & Chips, all within 0.5 km.
What services does Lifeboat Inn offer for guests?
The Inn provides allergy-free rooms, 24-hour security, and live music performances on-site.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
02Jun2026Select date
Check-out
03Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room