St Ives Blockhouse

The St Ives Blockhouse or the Island Blockhouse formed part of the Victorian gun battery built on the Island between 1856 and 1859. The battery was constructed during a period of national concern about a possible invasion, with guns positioned here to protect St Ives. The Blockhouse originally served as the barracks for the men responsible for operating the battery.

Historically known as Pendinas which means fortified headland, the Island's commanding position made it a natural place for defence. Records suggest that fortifications existed here by the seventeenth century, while a Napoleonic-era battery stood on the headland until 1815. The Victorian battery and its barracks therefore continued a long tradition of military and lookout use. Although the guns were removed in 1895, the Island has retained its role as a place of observation and public service through the NCI Lookout. Today, the Blockhouse stands as a lasting reminder of the headland's strategic importance.

The Blockhouse is now owned and cared for by St Ives Town Council, and the building has a new use as a wedding venue. It will be open to the wider public between 10am and 3pm on the 16th September and visitors can see inside; there is an unusual and complete Leach fireplace in the main room as well as a variety of window styles around the building, hinting at its purpose and past.

Timings

Wednesday 16 September:

Visit between 10am and 3pm

Location & directions

The Blockhouse, The Island, St. Ives, Cornwall, TR26 1NT

Directions:

The Blockhouse is situated at the top of the Island in St Ives, in close proximity of both the NCI Coastwatch and the St Nicholas Chapel. The what three words for the Blockhouse are: ///someone.snug.opposites

Contact on day:

Alison Johnston

Telephone number:

+441736322604

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The Blockhouse is a small historic building, and it's estimated that 25 people should be able to access the space comfortably at any one time. There is some level access into and around the building, with standard width doorways - please contact St Ives Town Council on 01736 797840 for any specific accessibility queries.

Additional information

The Blockhouse is close to other local landmarks as mentioned, which includes St Nicholas Chapel, and the NCI Lookout Station, and it is also just a short distance from St Leonards Chapel on Smeaton's Pier, which is open on the 16th September for Heritage Open Days too

Max number of people:

25

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 15 minute(s)

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