St Austell
Cornwall Beaches > The Cornish Riviera > Cornish towns > St Austell
The old market town of St Austell is just a few miles from the coast. The production of china clay became an important local industry and hastened the growth of the town from the eighteenth century onwards.
The town is an ideal centre for some of the loveliest beaches in Cornwall. If you are looking for a busy resort, try Carlyon Bay. If you prefer somewhere quieter and smaller, Polkerris is ideal for swimming. Not far from this delightful cove are the two former homes of local author Daphne du Maurier. On Gribbin Head stands Menabilly, the Manderly of Rebecca, whilst closer to the Par-Fowey road is Kilmarth, the original House on the Strand. Neither of these properties is open to the public, although there are several coastal walks passing close by.
St Austell’s port is the lovely harbour of Charlestown, where you will frequently see old sailing ships. The port has been used for numerous television series, such as Poldark, and there is a small museum open during the season.
Within easy reach of St Austell are the old fishing ports of Fowey and Mevagissey. The town is on the main railway and bus routes from London.
The beaches...
Local links
Atishoo Designs - St Austell - This gallery stocks hand-made jewellery, fine art and other locally made items.
China Clay Trails - Details of walks, horse riding and cycle paths around St Austell\'s China Clay country. Includes maps and historical background of these trails. The site also gives information on special Clay Trail events, including Volunteer days.
Cornish Riviera Tourist Information Centre, St Austell - Accommodation booking service; in-person, by phone or online. Local maps. Local interest & walks books. Tourist attraction information leaflets. Local knowledge to answer your questions!
Fowey to Mevagissey Ferry - Ferry trip accross St Austell Bay between two of the areas most charming fishing villages. Runs from 26 April to 30 September
Friends of Luxulyan Valley - Site concerned with the conservation of Luxulyan valley near St Austell. The valley consists of 2 miles of woodland with nearly 40 types of ferns and the Par River running through.
Gorranbus - Community bus service linking the village of Gorran Haven to Truro - St Austell - Plymouth
Lamplighter - St Austell - Menu includes locally produced beef and lamb, freshly caught seafood and seasonal local friuts and vegetables.
Mid Cornwall Galleries - One of the largest contemporary arts and crafts galleries in the West Country. Located in St Blazey near St Austell. The site contains extensive information on exhibiting artists and online ordering