Charlestown, St Austell, Cornwall, PL25 3NJ
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B eing located centrally in Cornwall gives the Rashleigh Arms easy access to everything the county has to offer. It has plenty to enjoy right on its doorstep too, with the stunning south coast charming on every turn. The surrounding area boasts a wealth of attractions that include the world-renowned Eden Project and The Lost Gardens of Heligan. What’s more, this is the perfect spot for discovering Poldark country. Here’s our guide of things to do in and near Charlestown during your visit.
Follow the journey of the perfect pint from grain to glass with a St Austell Brewery tour. You’ll trace 150 years of brewing history as you take in the sights and sounds of our active Victorian brewhouse tower, following the process through to the cask and kegging plants. What better way to finish the experience than with a sampling session at our Small Batch Bar? Then, head to the shop where a dazzling range of bottled beer, craft gin, merchandise, and gifts awaits.
Nestled on the outskirts of St Austell, Charlestown and its gorgeous Grade II listed Georgian harbour is known for its Tall Ships and sea views that have graced TV screens around the world, most recently in the BBC’s Poldark series. Meander the village’s quaint streets and admire unspoilt cottages that are interspersed with popular pubs, restaurants, and cafes. Ships regularly set sail from the harbour, offering the chance to explore the coastline with day trips and longer voyages.
The world-famous Eden Project is a 10-minute drive away. This fascinating day out, dubbed ‘the eighth wonder of the world’, never fails to impress with its tropical and Mediterranean biomes, each housing rare plants that have been collected from far away climates and environments. Alongside the biomes, a large outdoor garden, and Invisible Worlds exhibition, Eden hosts Skywire – England’s longest zip wire. You can even summit the biomes by braving the canopy walkway.
These breath-taking gardens were lost to the world before being uncovered some 25 years ago from the depths of wild weeds. There are over 200 acres to discover, including a sub-tropical jungle and a beautiful ancient woodland. You can expect to see an abundance of wildlife and a vibrant array of rare plant species. Heligan is one of the country’s most mysterious and adored gardens among families, tourists, and locals alike.
You’re never too far away from an impressive beach in St Austell. Charlestown’s pebble beach has a number of small caves, the glistening white sands of Pentewan is blessed with idyllic bathing waters and facilities, Carlyon Bay occupies a popular two-mile stretch of the coast, while Duporth amazes with an intriguing collection of rock pools.
One of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages, Mevagissey charms with its picture-postcard harbour and wealth of cosy pubs and contemporary restaurants. The winding streets are lined with gift shops, a museum, and even an aquarium housed in the old lifeboat house. Head to the harbour where you can hop aboard a ferry and sail to Fowey.
This quintessential Cornish seaside town and port never fails to impress with its cluster of pubs, restaurants, art galleries, cafes, and gift shops. Chart the coastal path to Readymoney Cove and St Catherine’s Castle, and hop on a ferry to Polruan, which boasts a small castle of its own. The Daphne Du Maurier Literary Centre showcases the life of the town’s most famous former resident.
This wonderful National Trust country house offers the chance to step back in time and catch a glimpse of Victorian ‘upstairs, downstairs’ living. The gardens and surrounding woodland feature riverside paths, ancient trees, and a plethora of wildlife. Lanhydrock is popular with cyclists too, who frequent the estate’s impressive off-road trails.
Explore the very best beaches in this glorious slice of Cornwall. From dog friendly sandy, stretches to secluded coves.
