Set only a few miles inland from the sparkling waters of St Austell Bay, this old mining town is now one of Cornwall’s largest. A holiday in St Austell combines the beaches, estuaries and fishing harbours of Cornwall’s gorgeous south coast with a fascinating industrial heritage and several of the county’s most popular attractions.
Of course, one of the main reasons for visiting Cornwall is its many beautiful beaches, and when you book a holiday in St Austell you’ll be spoilt for choice. From snoozing in the sand to swimming in the sheltered waters, Porthpean, Polkerris, Duporth, Par Sands and Carlyon Bay all offer stunning sand and clear, bright turquoise water. The coastline is perfect for watersports, from SUPing and kayaking to sailing and boat trips, and there are several places where you can hire equipment and book lessons.
There’s no better way to explore the stunning surrounding coastline than the South West Coast Path; you can spend every day of your stay in St Austell discovering somewhere new. Follow in Captain Poldark’s footsteps as you stroll around Charlestown’s unspoilt Georgian harbour. Visit the pastel-painted streets of Fowey with its many shops, galleries and waterfront eateries, or watch fishermen land their daily catch in Mevagissey’s colourful harbour before dining in one of the many pubs and restaurants, or indulging in a traditional fish’n’chip takeaway.
Away from the coast, there’s plenty to keep you entertained during your holiday in St Austell, no matter what the weather. St Austell is an important mining town, as it was here where William Cookworthy discovered china clay. It’s hard to miss the towering pits of clay, known as the ‘Cornish Alps’, while the Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum is definitely worth visiting. If you’re fond of real ale, take a tour of St Austell Brewery and enjoy a pint or two of ‘Proper Job’.
The famous tropical rainforest and mediterranean biomes of the Eden Project are just outside St Austell, and are sure to be a holiday highlight. There’s also a cycle and walking route from the town to the Eden Project, following the Clay Trails, and you can hire bikes locally. Also nearby are the beautiful Lost Gardens of Heligan, which were rediscovered and restored after years of being buried under brambles. Today, there are 200 acres to explore, filled with plants, wildlife, secret pathways, ancient woodlands and sculptures, as well as a rare breeds farm.
With everything from beaches, watersports and coastal walks to museums, gardens and industrial heritage, holidays in St Austell have it all.
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Things to do
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