St Ives is probably the most visited town in Cornwall. In summer, the beaches are delightful, the restaurants and cafés have something for everyone and resident artists (there are dozens) are inspired by the beautiful quality of the light.

Between heavy showers, I managed to snatch a few photographs. The little white houses were huddled together under the low grey sky. I like the seaside in winter - it offers different photo opportunities.

Virginia Woolf's family had a holiday home in St Ives. It's easy to imagine how she and her little siblings must have enjoyed running through the steep cobbled streets down to the sands. Next time, I'm determined to visit Talland House.

Visitors were walking briskly along the beach. The only way to stay warm was to keep on the move. No dawdling in front of the lovely little shops.

We had a better idea. When the rain was too squally, we took shelter in the cosy Lifeboat Inn. Betty Stogs's fine Cornish ale is highly recommended.