The South Cornwall village of Charlestown has a lot to offer and is well worth a visit. Fans of the popular historical TV series Poldark may recognise the picturesque harbour and surrounding areas that were used to portray some of the 18th-century scenes. The village has also been used for the filming of a number of other popular TV shows and films.

The village is extremely popular with tourists due to the pretty picture-postcard views and fishermen’s cottages that line the harbour.

Charlestown gets its name from Charles Rashleigh, a local businessman who, over 200 years ago, identified the potential for converting the tiny village of West Polmear (as Charlestown was known then) into a bustling port to support the local mines and china clay industries. His foresight changed what was a couple of fisherman’s houses into the village you see today. Now a UNESCO world heritage site with a grade II listed quay you will be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped back in time, especially when you come upon the 18^th century tall ships in the harbour. 

Food

If it’s a coffee, sandwich or cake you’re after, then why not check out Charlie’s Coffee House. According to many, their cream tea is one not to miss!

For something a little more substantial, the Longstore Steak and Seafood restaurant which overlooks the harbour is a lovely location for lunch or dinner, especially if you enjoy food with a view.

Beaches

Charlestown beach is a small, shingle beach accessed from the side of the village harbour.

Porthpean Beach is a small but pretty sheltered sandy beach less than a mile from Charlestown. With its calm clear waters, you could easily be mistaken and believe you’re in the Mediterranean on a warm sunny day. The beach has a nearby large pay and display car park and a café open during the summer months. Toilet facilities are also available.

Nearby Attractions

If stories of seafaring and pirates will capture your imagination, why not visit the Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Housing over 8,000 artefacts from over 150 shipwrecks as well as providing information on the history of Charlestown and access to some of the underground tunnels used to transport clay into the ships moored in the harbour. 

The town of St Austell is around 2 miles away from Charlestown. There are many things to do here including a visit to the St Austell Brewery Visitor Centre. The St Austell Brewery is a successful and well know independent brewery that remains family owned since it was founded in 1851. Here you can take a guided tour and possibly finish this off with a few samples in the bar or purchase some of the locally brewed ales from the shop to take home with you.

The nearby Pinetum Gardens houses one of the largest plant collections in Cornwall. The 20-acre site includes wonderful gardens to explore (as the name suggests) as well as holiday cottages to rent for anyone looking for a convenient base to explore the surrounding area. Relax in the Japanese garden or the Cornish cottage garden or look out for wildlife as you explore the water garden. The pretty tearoom café is a great spot to enjoy a light lunch after exploring the gardens.

Hotels

The Rashleigh Arms is a delightful inn located on the edge of the historic harbour. With 18 rooms this family-friendly pub is a great option for a characterful stay right in the centre of the village. The sea views from some of the rooms will not disappoint.

Pier House Hotel is another hotel in the heart of the village. Like The Rashleigh Arms, this is owned by the St Austell brewery and includes a bar and restaurant, so guests won’t have to go far for a taste of the good stuff!