Self-Guided Tour Of St Ives (Cambs) Architectural Landmarks - From Cromwell’s statue, Market Hill
The Pavement, St Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 5AD
As a result of the St Ives ‘Great Fire’ in 1689, most of the buildings in Market Hill are 18th century architecture and later. Many of the new buildings were elegant and fashionable, and St Ives became a prosperous community, showing off its wealth in bricks and mortar.
The Robin Hood Inn (now The Whisky Café): A rare timber-framed survivor of the fire, this building connects us directly to pre-1689 St Ives. Its preserved beams are witness to the town's past, and its sympathetic restoration shows how heritage can be honoured in our modern times.
The Bell (now Mountain Warehouse): Built in 1719, this building reflects the post-fire drive to rebuild with a sense of style and permanence. Note the bell motif preserved in the frontage brickwork.
The Tollbooth (now Tom’s Cakes): Dating from the mid-19th century, this quaint building served as the heart of the local livestock trade. Originally the livestock market’s office, it later became a store for sheep pen hurdles and then a bookmaker! Its repurposing shows how infrastructure has adapted, from agricultural markets to small-town charm.
The White Hart: Rebuilt in early Regency style after the fire originated in its namesake lane, it played a central role as a coaching inn, a crucial hub in 19th-century travel and communication. Even today, existing remnants like the stable block behind it offer a tangible link to the age of horse-drawn journeys.
Timings & Tours
Available anytime
Location & directions
The Pavement, St Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 5AD
- Directions:
- Download the detailed Tour Map, with directions, photos and building descriptions. Click on the globe in the "Check out our online channels" section below or copy and paste https://www.stivescivic.org.uk/events/heritage-open-day/
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Please note private properties are for external viewing only. Download the special HODS Tour Map for directions, photos, and site descriptions: https://www.stivescivic.org.uk/events/heritage-open-day
