Charlestown is a “dead-end” village, meaning you drive down to the harbour and stop. There is no through road. This makes parking simple but competitive.
The village essentially relies on one main car park. If you visit on a sunny Sunday in August, this can fill up. The golden rule here is to have a backup plan (like Porthpean) if the “Full” signs are out.
Our Top Picks
Since options are limited, your choice is usually determined by whether you are visiting a specific pub or just exploring the harbour.
- Best for Harbour & Museum (Main): Charlestown Car Park. The primary car park for the village. It is located on the left as you drive down, just a short walk from the Shipwreck Treasure Museum.
- Best for Pub Lunch: The Rashleigh Arms. Perfect if you are stopping for food. They have their own car park which is free for customers (you must register your vehicle at the bar).
- Best for a Coastal Walk: Porthpean Beach Car Park. Located in the next bay along. Park here and enjoy a stunning 15-minute coastal walk into Charlestown to avoid the village traffic.
Village Centre Parking
These are the two main places to park within the village itself.
Charlestown Car Park (Barkhouse Lane)
Postcode: PL25 3NH
Capacity: ~100+ spaces
Best For: The Shipwreck Museum, the Harbour, and the beach. This is the main public car park. It is privately run (cameras in operation), so ensure you pay immediately upon arrival.
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The Rashleigh Arms Car Park
Postcode: PL25 3NJ
Capacity: Moderate
Best For: Customers of the pub. It operates as a Pay & Display for the general public, but if you are eating or drinking in the pub, you can usually redeem the cost or register for free parking. Check the signage current rules upon entry.
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On-Street & Alternatives
On-Street Parking: There is very limited on-street parking on Charlestown Road. Most of it is restricted or marked with double yellow lines to allow buses to turn. We strongly recommend using the off-street car parks to avoid blocking the narrow access.
Porthpean Beach (Overflow)
Postcode: PL26 6AX
Capacity: ~100 spaces
Best For: A two-in-one day trip. Porthpean is a safe, sandy family beach. You can park here for the day, spend the morning on the sand, and then walk over the cliff path to Charlestown for lunch.
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Now that parking is sorted, plan the rest of your trip with our complete guide to Charlestown.