Things to do in Charlestown

Activities, attractions and tours

Charlestown featuring heritage architecture
Charlestown which includes flowers
Charlestown showing general coastal views and rocky coastline
Charlestown showing signage
Charlestown showing signage

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What to do in Charlestown

Popular places to visit

Lost Gardens of Heligan which includes a garden

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Wander around this enchanting garden, which has been beautifully restored after being abandoned for more than seven decades.

Lost Gardens of Heligan
Charlestown Harbour

Charlestown Harbour

Explore the waterfront in Charlestown with a trip to Charlestown Harbour. Stroll along the waterfront in this quaint area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Charlestown Harbour
Porthpean Beach

Porthpean Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Porthpean Beach during your travels in Saint Austell Bay?

Porthpean Beach
Crinnis Beach

Crinnis Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Crinnis Beach during your trip to Carlyon? While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Crinnis Beach
Gorran Haven Beach

Gorran Haven Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Gorran Haven Beach during your trip to Gorran Haven? Stroll along this relaxing area's beaches or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Gorran Haven Beach
Roche Rock

Roche Rock

You can find out about the history of Roche with a trip to Roche Rock. Visit the spas and lively bars in this relaxing area.

Roche Rock

Pentewan Sands Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Pentewan Sands Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Pentewan. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Pentewan Sands Beach

Caerhays Castle

Learn about the local history of St Austell when you take a trip to Caerhays Castle. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Caerhays Castle

Duporth Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Duporth Beach during your trip to Saint Austell Bay?

Duporth Beach
St. Austell showing a city and signage

St Austell

Frequently asked questions

Is Charlestown worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor activities, there are plenty of fun things to do in Charlestown. Don't forget to experience the area's blend of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Charlestown?
Porthpean Beach and Caerhays Castle are two good places to start your adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Charlestown while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Charlestown?
Don't go home without checking out Porthpean Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Charlestown.
Is three days enough to stay in Charlestown?
You can easily tour top attractions like Porthpean Beach, Crinnis Beach and Duporth Beach with a three-day trip to Charlestown. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so linger longer and head to North Cornish Coast.
Is Charlestown a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Charlestown, such as Porthpean Beach and Crinnis Beach, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 3 kilometres from central Charlestown is Saint Austell Bay and Trethurgy is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Charlestown with kids?
Deciding what to do in Charlestown with kids has never been easier. Whether you're holidaying with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in Charlestown for adults?
St Austell Brewery and Wheal Martyn China Clay Country Park are just two of the things to do in Charlestown. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Charlestown?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Charlestown is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Porthpean Beach is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.