Discover St. Austell | A Visitor's Introduction to St. Austell

Why is St Austell Worth a Visit?

St Austell is worth visiting for its rich industrial history, coastal charm, and proximity to Cornwall’s most famous gardens and attractions. The town played a pivotal role in the china clay industry, shaping the landscape and culture. Today, visitors can explore the heritage of the clay pits, visit nearby historic harbours, and enjoy some of the most spectacular gardens in the UK.

St Austell’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding coast and countryside, including the Roseland Peninsula, Fowey, and the South West Coast Path. The town itself offers markets, pubs, and cultural attractions that celebrate Cornwall’s unique identity.

St. Austell Highlights: Things to See and Do in St Austell

1. The Eden Project

A visit to St Austell wouldn’t be complete without exploring the iconic Eden Project, located just a few miles from the town centre. Known as “the eighth wonder of the world,” the Eden Project features massive biomes housing rainforests, Mediterranean landscapes, and exotic plants. Visitors can explore the tropical rainforest canopy, learn about sustainability projects, and enjoy seasonal events. The site also hosts outdoor concerts and family-friendly activities throughout the year.

2. Lost Gardens of Heligan

Located near Mevagissey, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are one of Cornwall’s most enchanting attractions. These restored Victorian gardens offer a mix of formal gardens, subtropical plants, and woodland trails. Highlights include the Jungle garden, featuring giant ferns and exotic species, and the famous Mud Maid and Giant’s Head sculptures hidden among the foliage. Heligan’s history and natural beauty make it a must-see for nature lovers.

3. Charlestown Harbour

A short drive from St Austell, Charlestown is a beautifully preserved Georgian harbour that has featured in TV series like Poldark. The harbour’s tall ships, stone quays, and historic buildings transport visitors back to Cornwall’s maritime past. Charlestown Shipwreck Treasure Museum offers fascinating exhibits on shipwrecks, smuggling, and naval history. The harbour is a great spot for a seaside walk, with several pubs and cafés overlooking the water.

4. Wheal Martyn Clay Works

For a deeper dive into St Austell’s china clay heritage, visit the Wheal Martyn Clay Works, an award-winning museum set within a former working clay pit. Visitors can explore historic clay works, mining machinery, and interactive exhibits detailing Cornwall’s industrial heritage. The site also features walking trails around the clay pits, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

5. Porthpean Beach

Just south of St Austell, Porthpean Beach is a sheltered cove with golden sands and calm waters, perfect for families, swimmers, and paddleboarders. The beach is popular for kayaking, snorkelling, and enjoying the rock pools at low tide. It’s a great spot for a relaxing beach day, just minutes from the town centre.

6. Mevagissey

A 15-minute drive from St Austell, the fishing village of Mevagissey is famous for its narrow streets, working harbour, and colourful cottages. Visitors can wander the village’s boutique shops, art galleries, and fish and chip restaurants along the quay. Boat trips from the harbour offer scenic cruises along the coast, with opportunities for fishing, wildlife spotting, and even ferry rides to nearby Fowey.

7. Pentewan Sands

One of the most popular beaches near St Austell, Pentewan Sands offers a long stretch of soft sand and clear waters. This family-friendly beach is ideal for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. The Pentewan Valley Trail, which connects the beach to St Austell, is perfect for walking and cycling, following the path of a former railway through woodlands and countryside.

8. Caerhays Castle and Gardens

Located a short drive from St Austell, Caerhays Castle is a stunning coastal estate known for its spring gardens and historic architecture. The castle overlooks Porthluney Cove, a secluded beach popular with locals. The gardens, renowned for their camellias, magnolias, and rhododendrons, are part of the National Collection of Magnolias. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the castle during the spring months.

9. Gribbin Head and the South West Coast Path

For breathtaking coastal views, take a walk to Gribbin Head, located between Par Sands and Fowey. This headland is home to the Gribbin Daymark, a red-and-white striped navigation tower. The South West Coast Path in this area offers some of the most scenic hiking routes in Cornwall, with views over St Austell Bay and Polkerris Beach.

10. St Austell Brewery

Founded in 1851, St Austell Brewery is one of Cornwall’s most famous beer producers. A tour of the brewery provides insight into the beer-making process and the history of Cornish ales. Visitors can sample award-winning brews, including the iconic Tribute, Proper Job, and Korev Lager, at the brewery taproom or local pubs around town.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

St Austell is well-connected by road and rail. The A390 links the town to Truro and Liskeard, while St Austell Railway Station provides direct services to London Paddington, Plymouth, and Exeter. Newquay Airport is about a 30-minute drive away, offering flights to major UK cities.

Parking

There are several car parks in St Austell, including Priory Car Park, White River Place, and Fore Street Car Park. Most attractions like Charlestown and Mevagissey also have dedicated parking facilities.

Dining

St Austell boasts seafood restaurants, pubs, and café culture. The Longstore in Charlestown offers modern steak and seafood dishes, while The Pier House Hotel overlooks the harbour with traditional Cornish cuisine. Kebab on the Corner and St Austell Market House offer great local bites.

Best Time to Visit

St Austell is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer (April to September) are the best times to experience the gardens, beaches, and outdoor attractions. Autumn offers quieter trails and beaches, while winter brings festive events and fewer crowds.

Exploring Beyond St Austell

From St Austell, visitors can easily reach Fowey, Looe, and Truro. The Roseland Peninsula, Tintagel Castle, and Polperro are also within driving distance, making St Austell an ideal base for discovering Cornwall’s south coast.