Porthmeor: Where art, sea and craft beer meet

Porthmeor Beach is and has, always been much more than a nice beach. For many years, its light, vista, and energy have drawn visitor to St Ives. That's not just sun seekers and those on holiday, but artists searching for inspiration from the famed light of the area and the stunning backdrop of the often wild, sometimes serene Atlantic ocean.

From  the 1920s and 30s, painters and sculptors began to settle here, captivated by the clarity of the light and the rugged beauty of the coastline. Figures like Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, and later the St Ives School of abstract artists helped transform the town into a hub of creativity. St Ives became known across the world as a place where land, sea, and imagination came together in new ways. This culture permeates everyday life in St Ives, the town bustles with visitors keen to enjoy that light, but also to witness the work of local artists, crafters and sculptors. You'll find galleries throughout the town, and not just the big one on Porthmeor beach. There are plenty of smaller studios, places where you can get up close and personal with creators.

The history of art and culture, alongside that much discussed light is what led to the opening of the Tate St Ives in 1993. Built overlooking Porthmeor, the gallery was designed not only to celebrate modern art but also to honour the unique role this small Cornish town played in shaping it. Today, the Tate continues to showcase international works while also celebrating the artists who made St Ives their home. It is perched on the edge of Porthmeor, with incredible views out to see, with Clodgy point to the West and The Island to East.

Here at St Ives Brewery, we share that same sense of pride in place. Meor IPA, part of the core range, takes its name from Porthmeor itself. It's our nod to the beach where art, community, and culture converge. Brewed with bold hops and a crisp, refreshing character, it’s a beer that captures the spirit of the coast: fresh, vibrant, and full of life. A modern classic that offers refreshment and delicious enjoyment, regardless of if you are sipping from 330ml cans, a 500ml bottle or in one of the many local pubs serving this drop on tap.

Just as the Tate was built here because of the light, the landscape, and the creativity born of them, Meor IPA is brewed here because of the same inspiration. It’s our way of brewing that culture of art.

So whether you’re wandering the Tate’s galleries, watching surfers swoop through Porthmeor surf, or simply sitting back with friends as the sun dips over the bay, Meor IPA is your companion for the moment. A beer rooted in the history, art, and soul of St Ives.

Coastline, canvas and the Art of Brewing.