Charlestown
Charlestown is a unique and remarkably preserved Georgian harbour situated on the shores of St Austell Bay.
Originally a small fishing hamlet known as West Polmear, it was transformed in the late 18th century by entrepreneur Charles Rashleigh into a bustling port for the export of copper and china clay.
The harbour remains a rare example of late 18th-century maritime engineering, featuring an original outer quay and a lock-gate system that protects the inner basin from the tide. Because of its authentic atmosphere and the frequent presence of historic tall ships, Charlestown has gained international fame as a filming location for numerous productions, including the celebrated BBC series Poldark.
Today, the village is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitors a chance to explore the Shipwreck Treasure Museum, walk along the rugged pebble beaches, and experience a living piece of Cornwall’s industrial and maritime history.
Charlestown Guides
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