Parking in St Austell is generally stress-free compared to the coast. The town has two main “hubs” for parking: the Priory Car Park at the top end of town (best for the cinema and old high street) and White River Place at the bottom (best for modern shops).
Most car parks here are modern, camera-controlled, and accept card payments, which makes life much easier than in the rural villages.
Our Top Picks
Save time by heading straight to the car park that matches your plans.
- Best for Shopping (Town Centre): Priory Car Park. The main surface car park. It is open-air, spacious, and located right next to the church and the top of the high street.
- Best for Security & Covered Parking: White River Place Car Park. A large multi-storey located under the shopping centre. Ideal for rainy days or if you want your car under cover.
- Best for Commuting: St Austell Station Car Park. Located directly at the station. It is perfect if you are catching a train to Truro or Plymouth, but it is strictly pay-and-display.
Town Centre & Shopping
These are the two primary locations where 90% of visitors park.
Priory Car Park
Postcode: PL25 5AB
Capacity: ~250 spaces
Best For: The Cinema, Bingo, and quick access to Fore Street. It is run by the Town Council and is generally cheaper than the multi-storey. It uses an ANPR camera system (Pay on Exit/App).
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White River Place Multi-Storey
Postcode: PL25 5AZ
Capacity: ~500 spaces
Best For: White River Place Shopping Centre (TK Maxx, Snap Fitness, etc.). It is a modern, secure car park with lift access directly into the shopping precinct.
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Leisure & Station Parking
If you are visiting the leisure centre or catching a train, head to these specific spots.
Polkyth Car Park
Postcode: PL25 4DB
Capacity: ~70 spaces
Best For: St Austell Library and Polkyth Leisure Centre. It is a Council-run long-stay car park located a short walk from the station and the town centre.
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St Austell Station (APCOA)
Postcode: PL25 4LA
Capacity: ~79 spaces
Best For: Rail passengers. It is located on the ‘up’ side (towards Plymouth). Note that it can fill up early with commuters on weekdays.
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Now that parking is sorted, plan the rest of your trip with our complete guide to St Austell.