Located on Cornwall’s south coast, St Austell is one of the county’s largest towns and has a rich industrial past rooted in the china clay industry. Today, it’s a lively hub surrounded by beautiful countryside, gardens, and coastlines, offering plenty to explore for visitors.
- China clay capital – St Austell was once the centre of Cornwall’s china clay industry, which supplied fine white clay used in porcelain and paper production worldwide.
- The Eden Project – Just outside the town lies the world-famous Eden Project, built in a reclaimed clay pit. Its vast biomes house thousands of plant species from around the globe.
- Historic brewery – St Austell Brewery, founded in 1851 by Walter Hicks, remains one of Cornwall’s most respected breweries, producing popular beers such as Tribute and Proper Job.
- Geological roots – The distinctive white landscape surrounding the town, known as the “Cornish Alps,” comes from the waste heaps of the china clay industry that once dominated the area.
- Charlestown connection – The nearby harbour village of Charlestown, part of the St Austell parish, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favourite filming location, featuring in Poldark and Alice in Wonderland.
- Beautiful gardens – St Austell is surrounded by some of Cornwall’s finest gardens, including the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a spectacular estate rediscovered and restored in the 1990s.
- Religious heritage – The parish church of Holy Trinity in the town centre dates back to the 15th century and features an impressive tower adorned with carved figures of saints.
- Regeneration and art – In recent years, St Austell has undergone a major regeneration project celebrating clay heritage through public art and sculptures made with locally sourced materials.
- Coastal access – The town is just a short drive from the south coast’s sandy beaches, including Porthpean and Pentewan, both popular for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Gateway to adventure – With rail links, nearby cycling trails, and coastal walks, St Austell is an ideal base for exploring mid-Cornwall, from Mevagissey and Fowey to the Roseland Peninsula.
From its industrial legacy and creative renewal to its proximity to some of Cornwall’s most beautiful coast and countryside, St Austell offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.