Staying in St Austell offers variety. You can choose from grand clifftop hotels with championship golf courses, modern eco-hotels with spas, or reliable B&Bs near the train station that make exploring the county without a car a breeze.
From luxury spa breaks to family-friendly campsites near the clay trails, here is our curated guide to sleeping in St Austell.
The St Austell Accommodation Map
Map coming soon! We are currently curating the interactive map for this guide. Check back shortly.
Our Top Picks
These three properties offer the best facilities and location in the area.
1. The Carlyon Bay Hotel (Best for Luxury & Golf)
Perched on the cliffs overlooking St Austell Bay, this is the “Grand Dame” of local hotels. It feels like stepping into an Agatha Christie novel (in a good way).
- The Vibe: Old-school luxury. It has high ceilings, chandeliers, and impeccable service.
- The Stay: It boasts a championship golf course, a large spa, and both indoor and outdoor pools. The sea views from the terrace are arguably the best in the area.
2. The Cornwall Hotel & Spa (Best for Modern Relaxation)
Located on the edge of the town in the Pentewan Valley, this is a 4-star hotel set in a 19th-century manor house with a modern woodland extension.
- The Vibe: Relaxed and green. It is set in 43 acres of parkland, making it great for dog walking.
- The Stay: It has a fantastic “Clearing Spa” with an infinity pool. You can choose between rooms in the historic manor or the contemporary “Woodland” rooms. It is very popular for spa breaks.
3. Porth Avallen Hotel (Best for Sea Views)
Situated in Carlyon Bay, this hotel offers a more intimate feel than its larger neighbour.
- The Vibe: Friendly and traditional. It has a loyal following due to its warm hospitality.
- The Stay: Many rooms have balconies looking right out over the water. It is a quiet, comfortable base that is perfect for couples.
Budget & Hostels
- YHA Eden Project: This is a unique experience. You can stay in “Snoozeboxes” (shipping containers converted into comfortable en-suite rooms) right on the Eden Project site. It is perfect for families and budget travellers who want to be first in the queue for the biomes.
- Travelodge & Premier Inn: St Austell has both, located conveniently on the outskirts. They offer reliable, consistent quality if you just need a place to crash after a day of exploring.
Camping & Glamping
- Carlyon Bay Caravan & Camping Park: A large, well-equipped site with huge grassy pitches. It is close to the beach and has outdoor pools, making it a hit with families.
- Little Winnick Touring Park: Located in the Pentewan Valley, this is a quieter, more peaceful site with direct access to the cycle trails.
Parking & Logistics
- The Station Hub: If you are arriving by train, look for B&Bs on Truro Road or South Street, which are within walking distance of the station.
- Car is King: While the town has a station, St Austell is spread out. Having a car is recommended if you want to stay at The Cornwall or Carlyon Bay, as they are a few miles from the town centre.
Checked in?
Now it is time to visit the biomes and the beaches. View our guide to the best things to do in St Austell