Similar feel to Saint Ives...

[magbags]

We went to Saint Ives (Cornwall) two years ago and really loved it. We are considering booking there again this year but I am just wondering if a new place to explore might be quite nice instead. We only have one holiday a year and so I like to try and get it right if I can! The things we liked about Saint Ives and would look for elsewhere are:

Beaches within easy walking distance (preferably accomodation right at the beach)
Nice little independent shops
Laid back family feel
Art galleries (optional but nice)
Lots of cafes and restaurants
Easy travel/transfer from Scotland
Sunshine!

We have a 3 year old and a 6 month old so may also consider one of these farm animals / collect the eggs in the morning type places - if could find one fairly close to civilisation (shops and restaurants).

Any suggestions / links would be much appreciated

we've never found anywhere to beat St Ives! Have been every year since ds was 3! Love it.

In the UK or abroad?

I think you need to take a plane to easily get anywhere Sunny from Scotland.

Ile d'Re, off the west coast of France?

I'm not surprised bluesky - it's gorgeous!

We flew last time, Glasgow to Newquay in around an hour. Would consider abroad if it was the right place. Will look that up Lynette, thanks.

How about the south hams? Its basically south devon, you could fly to Exeter or Plymouth and its about 45 mins to 1hr drive from each.

Salcombe has the beaches and restaurants and isn't as big as St Ives.
www.kingsbridge.info/hhebeaches.html
Loads to do in the area and the beaches are all within a short ferry ride. Possibly a bit more expensive than St Ives as its very popular with the London set.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salcombe

Just a thought as I grew up in the south hams

St Ives is unique!

Padstow has a similair vibe, better food, and nice beach (catch the ferry over to Rock).

Abersoch and Tenby in Wales are also sweet but not really arty.

Holt in Norfolk?????
Nice shops.

Croyde, North Devon

Saundersfoot, West Wales