Heritage Open Days - St Ives Blockhouse
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Free, no booking required.
Perched on the Island overlooking St Ives Bay, The Blockhouse occupies one of the town's most historically significant and prominent locations. The Blockhouse will be open on the 16th of September as part of Heritage Open Days
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.
Perched on the Island overlooking St Ives Bay, The Blockhouse occupies one of the town's most historically significant and prominent locations. The Blockhouse will be open on the 16th of September as part of Heritage Open Days
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.
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Where is it happening?
The Island, St. Ives, The Island,St Ives, United Kingdom
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherSt Ives Town Council Cornwall
