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Charlestown is a village and port on Cornwall's south coast, about two miles south east of St Austell. It grew from the fishing village of West Polmear, where pilchards were processed.

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Charlestown in Cornwall
Charlestown

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Charlestown and nearby places

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Know before you go

Charlestown: a Georgian harbour near St Austell, home to tall ships and a regular film location

Charlestown is a village and port on Cornwall's south coast, about two miles south east of St Austell. It grew from the fishing village of West Polmear, where pilchards were processed. The village lies within the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site.

Local landowner Charles Rashleigh began building the harbour in 1791, using plans by John Smeaton, and the first dock gates were finished in 1799. The port shipped copper ore and later china clay, and the last commercial load of clay left in 2000. Remains of the clay chutes can still be seen on the east side. The Grade II listed harbour keeps much of its Georgian character.

The harbour is home to a small fleet of historic ships, so tall ships are often moored in the dock. Boats come and go, so a visit is not guaranteed to find them in port. Local fishermen still use the harbour.

Read the full Charlestown guide

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A little planning goes a long way

Before you book your Charlestown stay

Two properties can look close on a map and still involve a very different journey. Ask about the whole stay, from unloading your bags to getting back after an evening out.

Find places to eat in Charlestown

Parking and arrival

Parking in Charlestown: Limited parking in the village. Follow signs from the A390. Ask whether parking is on site, reserved elsewhere or in a public car park, and confirm unloading arrangements and the walk with luggage.

Hills, steps and access

Ask the host about the route from the street to your room, lift access, bathroom layout and any steps inside. A central address or harbour view does not tell you whether a property suits your mobility needs.

Families and dogs

Confirm the room layout, cot or extra bed arrangements and any dog restrictions directly. For cottages, check outside space and where you can unload. Do not assume a whole property, parking or pet permission is included.

Good to know

  • Setting: Georgian harbour village on St Austell Bay, about two miles south east of St Austell
  • Beaches: Small beach beside the harbour mouth. Carlyon Bay is nearby
  • Getting here: Train to St Austell, then bus or taxi. Buses run between St Austell and St Blazey via Charlestown. By road off the A390
  • Known for: Tall ships, Georgian harbour, Poldark and other filming
  • Nearby: St Austell, Carlyon Bay, Par, Pentewan, Fowey

Useful things to know

Questions about staying in Charlestown

Are there tall ships in Charlestown harbour?

Yes, the harbour is home to historic ships, and tall ships often moor in the dock. The main vessel has been the Anny of Charlestown, a Danish topsail schooner built in 1930, alongside other historic boats. Boats move around, so check before you visit if you want to see a particular ship.

Is there a beach at Charlestown?

There is a small beach beside the harbour mouth and outer harbour. Carlyon Bay is close by along St Austell Bay. Check the tide and conditions before you swim.

What pubs are there in Charlestown?

The Rashleigh Arms is owned and managed by St Austell Brewery. The Pier House Hotel stands beside the harbour, and there are other cafes and restaurants around the dock. Check opening times before you travel, especially out of season.

Where do you park in Charlestown?

Parking in the village is limited. Follow the signs for Charlestown from the A390 near St Austell. In the main season it is worth arriving early or coming by bus from St Austell.

How do you get to Charlestown by public transport?

The nearest railway station is St Austell, with Great Western Railway services from London Paddington. From St Austell, take a local bus or taxi for the short trip to Charlestown. Buses run between St Austell and St Blazey via Charlestown.

Can I bring my dog or book a family room?

Policies vary by property and sometimes by room. Check your dates, the number and size of dogs, extra charges, bed arrangements and any age restrictions with the provider before paying.

Does this page show live prices and availability?

No. This is a directory to help you compare places and locations. Use the Check dates and prices button for current prices and availability, or open a listing and contact the property directly for availability and cancellation terms.

Property details come from directory records and should be confirmed with the provider. About Cornish.co.uk · Tell us about a correction

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