St Ives Harbour, Cornwall 1977

The vibrant summer atmosphere of the West Country is captured in this authentic 1970s colour photograph from 1977. The archival image provides an elevated perspective over the dense coastal architecture of St Ives, Cornwall, looking towards the harbour and Smeaton’s Pier. In the foreground, traditional white-washed cottages and granite buildings feature weathered slate roofs and brick chimneys, with some rooftops showing orange lichen growth typical of the sea air. The harbour beach is densely populated with holidaymakers enjoying the clear turquoise water, while the harbour itself is filled with moored fishing boats and pleasure craft. The prominent square tower of the Parish Church of St Ia stands as a landmark above the terraced streets and narrow alleyways. This factual record preserves the visual character of the popular Cornish seaside resort during the late 1970s, documenting a period of thriving domestic tourism and the enduring charm of the British coastline.