St Austell, a charming town in Cornwall, is a unique destination that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and modern attractions. Nestled close to the Cornish coast, this area is famous for its rich china clay history and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, St Austell’s unique blend of features makes it a must-visit for everyone.
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St Austell Cornwall
St Austell, a gem in the heart of Cornwall, offers a rich blend of history, nature, and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local tourist attractions, relaxing on the beach, or delving into the area’s industrial heritage, St Austell has a variety of activities to cater to your interests, promising a memorable visit for all who come.
As with all of my guides, I’ve noted the things to do in St Austell with dogs. St Austell is not just a paradise for humans, but also for our four-legged friends, with plenty of places to explore together.
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Free Things to Do in St Austell
You don’t need to spend a lot to have a great time in St Austell Bay. There are plenty of things to do in St Austell for free.
Porthpean Beach
Porthpean Beach is perfect for a family day out, just a short distance from the town centre. Its sandy shores and calm waters make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing, and snorkelling are popular here. It’s also home to Porthpean Sailing Club, which has a slipway with easy access to the water.
🐾 There is a seasonal dog ban. Between 1 July and 31 August, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10am and 6pm.
Carlyon Bay
Carlyon Bay is a stunning stretch of sand that is perfect for a day out. The westerly end is known as Crinnish Beach, and it is the most accessible and popular. The stretch of sand is almost two miles long. The South West Coast Path runs along the cliff top.
🐾 Seasonal dog ban between Easter and 30 September.
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Par Beach
Par Sands Beach is perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing beach games. You could also explore the nearby dunes and ponds for wildlife spotting. The water is ideal for children to swim and play in, but there’s no lifeguard service.
🐾 Dogs allowed all year
Explore the Coastal Path
Breathe in the salty air and feast your eyes on the stunning vistas of the South West Coast Path. The rugged coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, is a walker’s paradise. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins frolicking in the surf!
🐾 Dog friendly
Menacuddle Well
Tucked away like a hidden gem, Menacuddle Well is a serene spot steeped in history and folklore. It’s also known as the Clay Trails, as it was shaped by St Austell’s china clay mining industry. The scenic walking and cycling routes have a distinctive terrain of clay pits and spoil heaps, now transformed into beautiful countryside.
Wander through the lush greenery, and let the soothing sounds of the waterfall wash over you. Legend has it the waters here have healing powers – so dip your toes in and see if it cures that niggling hangover or aches and pains.
🐾 Dog friendly
Kings Wood
Kings Wood is a beautiful woodland area offering scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and a peaceful environment perfect for a family outing. The well-marked trails, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, provide a quiet escape and a chance to spot some local wildlife.
🐾 Dog friendly
Charlestown Harbour
Step back in time at Charlestown Harbour, where tall ships and maritime history come to life. This picturesque port, frequently used as a filming location for TV shows and films, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Walk along the quayside, visit the Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre, and enjoy the maritime atmosphere. Plus, there’s no charge for admiring the view!
🐾 Dog friendly
Things to do in St Austell
From lush gardens and historical museums to serene landscapes and maritime history, your days out in Cornwall will be filled with discovery and enjoyment.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are among England’s most magical and mysterious gardens. Discover the mysterious and beautifully restored gardens, which offer a fascinating insight into Victorian horticulture and provide a serene setting for a leisurely stroll. Wander through a lush, subtropical garden featuring giant rhubarb, palm trees, and bamboo tunnels. Explore manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and quaint summerhouses.
🐾 Dogs on leads are welcome, including the Heligan Kitchen and Steward’s House.
Caerhays Estate
Tour the grand Caerhays Castle, set within extensive gardens known for their camellia and rhododendron collections and architectural surprises. In spring, you can visit the castle and gardens, walk along the coastal path, and visit the stunning beaches on the estate.
🐾 Dogs are welcome in the gardens on leads.
Charlestown Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Charlestown, a historic harbour village, is home to the Charlestown Shipwreck Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history and shipwrecks around the Cornish coast. The museum features an extensive collection of artefacts from shipwrecks, including treasures, tools, and personal belongings. Visitors can also learn about the history of Charlestown, the harbour’s construction, and its role in the Chinese clay industry.
🐾 Dog friendly. There are even water bowls dotted around the museum.
Wheal Martyn Clay Works
Dig deep into Cornwall’s industrial heritage at Wheal Martyn. This china clay mining museum offers interactive exhibits, nature clay trails, and even a chance to pan for gold. Dive deeper into the region’s industrial past.
🐾 Dog friendly, including the café.
Pinetum Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle with a visit to Pinetum Gardens, a beautiful 30-acre estate showcasing a variety of themed gardens, each offering a unique horticultural experience. These beautifully manicured gardens are a haven of tranquillity. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and a bit of soul-soothing nature.
🐾 Dogs on short leads are welcome.
St Austell Town Museum
The St Austell Market House and Town Museum is a small but intriguing museum dedicated to the local history of St Austell and its surrounding areas. It offers an intimate look into the town’s past. Exhibits detailing the history and impact of the china clay industry on the region. Displays of historical objects, photographs, and documents from St Austell’s past. It’s also one of the things to do in St Austell when it rains.
The historic Market House is home to various independent shops and stalls. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and tasty treats.
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
Things to do in St Austell for Families
St Austell is a wonderful destination for family days. These things to do in St Austell with kids offer a mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and fun-filled attractions.
White River Cinema
Catch the latest blockbuster or a quirky indie film at White River Cinema. It’s a great way to wind down after a day of exploring, with comfy seats and plenty of popcorn. It opened in 2008 and was the first purpose-built cinema in Cornwall for over 70 years. The cinema has four screens, so there’s usually a good choice of films.
Kidzworld Adventure Play
Who needs theme parks when there’s soft play? When the weather turns British (wet and windy), or if you want to guarantee that you will wear them out, head indoors to Kidzworld Adventure Play. This indoor play centre is packed with slides, climbing frames, and soft play areas. It’s basically a child’s dream come true, and you can relax with a cuppa while they tire themselves out.
Cornwall FootballGolf Park
A unique outdoor attraction combining football and golf, Cornwall Football Golf Park is suitable for all ages. It has 18-hole courses where players kick a football into large holes in as few shots as possible.
🐾 Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome
Things to do in St Austell for Adults
By combining wine tours with outdoor activities, historical sites, and local dining experiences, St Austell provides a well-rounded and enjoyable visit for adults.
St Austell Brewery Tour
Established in 1851, St Austell Brewery is one of Cornwall’s oldest breweries. Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Cornwall’s most famous breweries. The St Austell Brewery Tour offers an insight into the brewing process, a peek at the history of beer-making in the region, and – most importantly – a tasting session, including renowned ales Tribute and Proper Job. Cheers! Visit the on-site museum and shop, and enjoy a meal or a pint at the Hicks Bar.
🐾 Dogs are allowed in the bar and restaurant but not on the brewery tour.
Camel Valley Vineyard
Camel Valley Vineyard is one of Cornwall’s most renowned wineries. It offers guided tours where you can learn about the winemaking process, followed by tastings of its award-winning wines. (If you need to take the kids, they can have grape juice.) The vineyard is set in beautiful surroundings, offering stunning views, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Twilight Escape Room
Solve puzzles, find clues, and work together to escape within a set time limit. The Twilight Escape Room is at The Duke of Cornwall pub, where you’re at a lock-in. The police have been informed, and to avoid arrest, you need to break out within 60 minutes. The game is suitable for 2-6 players.
Shopping at White River Place
Fancy a spot of retail therapy? White River Place is St Austell’s shopping hub, with a mix of high-street favourites and quirky independent shops. It’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing and buying. There are often events and entertainment, such as live music, seasonal festivals, and special promotions, held throughout the year.
Knightor Winery
Knightor Winery offers in-depth tours of its vineyards and winemaking facilities, ending with tastings of its exquisite wines. The winery’s restaurant serves dishes made from locally sourced ingredients that pair perfectly with its wines. Look out for special events such as wine and food pairings, seasonal festivals, and live music nights.
🐾Dog friendly
Things to do in St Austell for Couples
Are you looking for a romantic escape? St Austell has plenty to offer lovebirds, from cosy corners to breathtaking views.
Romantic Picnic
Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and head to one of the beautiful Cornish beaches. Enjoy the sound of waves lapping the shore and catch a stunning sunset.
Devon Hampers sends the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream, and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider, and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
Enjoy a Spa Day
Who doesn’t love to relax and recharge? Choose from various health and relaxation treatments, enjoy a dip in the pool and jacuzzi, sweat it out in the sauna and enjoy a spot of lunch. Close to St Austell, the following offer spa days:
- Enjoy a relaxing day at The Cornwall Hotel and Spa, which offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The spa facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.
- Indulge in luxurious spa treatments at the Carlyon Bay Hotel, with options like hot stone massages, aromatherapy, and beauty treatments. Take advantage of their leisure facilities, including a heated indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, and fitness centre.
- Experience a serene spa day at Boscundle Manor, which features a range of treatments from holistic therapies to beauty services. Relax in their indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna, set within beautiful grounds.
Things to do in St Austell at Night
When the sun sets, St Austell comes alive with options to suit every nocturnal adventurer. These options should provide a range of activities to suit different tastes and ensure an enjoyable evening in St Austell.
Pubs in St Austell
Get a taste of local nightlife at one of the welcoming pubs, each with its unique charm and character. It’s the perfect spot for an evening out with live music and quiz nights. Highlights include:
1. The White Hart Hotel
The White Hart Hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere in the centre of town. Its traditional décor and friendly staff make it a perfect spot to relax with a pint of locally brewed ale or cider. The pub also serves various hearty meals that pair perfectly with your drink of choice.
🐾Dog friendly in the bar area and on the floorboards
2. The Rann Wartha
A Wetherspoon pub, The Rann Wartha is known for its affordable prices and extensive menu. This bustling pub is excellent for socialising, and its convenient location makes it an easy choice for an evening out.
3. The Western Inn
The Western Inn is a must-visit for an authentic taste of Cornish hospitality. This pub is known for its live music nights, quiz evenings and live sports on the big TVs, offering a lively and engaging atmosphere for locals and tourists.
🐾 Dog friendly
Restaurants in St Austell
Cornwall is known for its delicious food. Indulge in local specialities such as Cornish pasties, fresh seafood, and cream teas. Many places to eat in St Austell offer these delicacies alongside stunning views.
You can expect plenty of Cornish delicacies such as fresh seafood, stargazy pie and saffron buns. St Austell also has a Michel-star and fine dining restaurants, bistros, and casual dining. You can find Italian, pizza, burgers, fish and chips, Indian cuisine, pub classics, and traditional roasts on Sundays.
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Live Music in St Austell
Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy in St Austell’s lively music scene. Many pubs and venues host regular live performances, showcasing local talent and creating a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
The St Austell Band Club is a live music bar renowned for its live music nights, featuring a mix of local bands and solo artists. The friendly atmosphere and excellent acoustics make it a popular spot for music enthusiasts. The Western Inn has live bands on Saturday nights and live music at The White Hart Hotel on Friday and Saturday nights. There’s also live music at the Carlyon Arms.
The Keay Theatre
For those who enjoy cultural experiences, the Keay Theatre is a gem in St Austell’s nightlife. This intimate theatre hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, comedy shows, and more. The Keay Theatre is known for its community-focused approach, often showcasing local talent and providing a platform for emerging artists.
Things to do Near St Austell
St Austell is a charming destination in itself and a perfect base for exploring the stunning surrounding areas of Cornwall.
The Eden Project
No trip to St Austell is complete without a visit to the Eden Project. These iconic biomes house the largest indoor rainforest in the world. Wander through tropical jungles, admire the stunning gardens, and let the kids burn off some energy at the adventure playground. Family fun is guaranteed! It’s an educational and visually stunning experience for families and nature enthusiasts.
🐾Dog friendly in the outdoor gardens. There are also water bowls and an undercover area for dogs.
Luxulyan Valley
Luxulyan Valley is a hidden natural wonder just a short distance from St Austell. This lush valley is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a network of trails that wind through ancient woodlands, past impressive granite viaducts, and along the course of old tramways and leats. The valley’s industrial heritage and natural beauty make it a fascinating place to explore.
🐾 Dog friendly
Roseland Peninsula
A short drive from St Austell, the Roseland Peninsula boasts some of Cornwall’s most picturesque villages and coastal scenery. Here, you can walk the cliffs or riverbanks, swim off the beaches, browse the shops, sail, windsurf, waterski, and dive. Snorkel, fish and bird watch. Highlights include St Mawes Castle, built in the reign of Henry VII, and St Anthony Lighthouse, built in 1834, also the set for the television series Fraggle Rock.
Roche Rock
Roche Rock is a striking natural and historical landmark. This jagged granite outcrop rises dramatically from the landscape and is topped with the ruins of a 15th-century chapel dedicated to St. Michael. The climb to the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and the rock itself is steeped in legends and local folklore, making it a fascinating spot to explore.
🐾 Dog friendly
Mevagissey
Mevagissey is a quintessential Cornish fishing village located just south of St Austell. Known for its narrow streets, colourful houses, and bustling harbour, it is a delight to visit. Spend time exploring the charming shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants, or take a boat trip along the coast for a different perspective of this beautiful village. The Mevagissey Museum offers an interesting insight into the local history and fishing heritage.
Fowey
Situated on the west bank of the River Fowey, this picturesque town is famous for its scenic harbour, historic buildings, and literary connections with author Daphne du Maurier. Enjoy a stroll along the Esplanade, visit the Fowey Museum, and explore the independent shops and cafes – there are so many things to do in Fowey. No visit is complete without discovering St Catherine’s Castle or the nearby Restormel Castle.
Take advantage of the opportunity to take a ferry across the river to Polruan for stunning views and coastal walks. The Fowey Polruan Ferry runs every day of the year, apart from Christmas Day and departs from each side every 10-15 minutes. It’s also dog-friendly.
Looe
Looe is a charming seaside town divided into East and West Looe by the River Looe. East Looe is known for its sandy beach, bustling fish market, and vibrant harbour, while West Looe offers a quieter, more residential atmosphere.
There are plenty of things to do in Looe, including visiting the Looe Museum, taking a boat trip to Looe Island, or simply enjoying the local seafood at one of the many restaurants. The town also hosts an annual music festival, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. Looe has many exciting restaurants, pubs, and cafes to choose from; places to eat in Looe.
Polperro
Polperro is a beautifully preserved fishing village with a rich history and stunning coastal scenery. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, visit the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing, and take in the breathtaking views of the south coast. Discover all of the things to do in Polperro.
For such a small village, you will experience outstanding local food in all of these places to eat in Polperro.
Cornish Days Out
There are so many unusual things to do in St Austell; it’s full of surprises. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or just exploring solo, this charming Cornish town has something for everyone. So, the next time you visit St Austell, be sure to venture off the beaten path and enjoy these unique activities.
Places to Stay in St Austell
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets. Find great places to stay in Cornwall:
Cornwall Hideaways
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts and manor houses – perfect for self catering holidays.
🐾 Dog friendly
Best Western Hotels
There are two Best Western Hotels in Cornwall; Fowey and Newquay. Every Best Western hotel is individual and crammed full of its own personality. From big comfy beds, fresh linen sheets and free WiFi. Some of the hotels have parking and may charge a small fee. Check out their special offers.
🐾 Some properties welcome dogs
Haven Holidays
Haven Holidays in Cornwall can be found at Perranporth and Hayle. With acres of fun for all the family, beaches, and entertainment, you’ll be thrilled with your stay here. Both caravans and lodges are available, and there are plenty of leisure facilities and an indoor pool.
🐾 Dog friendly accommodation
Sykes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones near Rhayader are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
🐾 Dogs welcome
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offer a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
🐾 Dogs welcome in some properties
Or, get 35% off when booking 10 nights or more in Cornwall, Devon, Wales and Northern Ireland. Bookings are for stays between 1 October and 30 November 2024 and 1 January to 28 February 2025. Use discount code 10NAF.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels and luxurious resorts tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay while also providing recommendations and insights on planning, being accessible, and things to do during your trip.
Last Minute Deals
Using LastMinute.com to book hotel rooms allows you to seize spontaneous travel opportunities while securing great deals. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.
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