Things To Do - Welcome to St Austell

Things to Do in St Austell

St Austell is packed with places to explore, experiences to enjoy, and hidden gems to discover. Whether you're in the mood for a bit of retail therapy, a bite to eat, or a day out with the family, there's something here for everyone.

Take a stroll through our historic town centre, discover local shops and independent businesses, or head out to nearby attractions like the Eden Project and beautiful Cornish beaches. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your time in and around St Austell.

Browse below for inspiration and ideas to help you make the most of your visit.

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There is an abundance of activities to find when visiting St Austell. These fun filled ideas will ensure you and the family have an unforgettable day!

Tourist Attractions

Activites

Points of Interest

THE LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN
Discovered by chance a quarter of a century ago, The Lost Gardens of Heligan have been restored into 200 acres of award-winning grounds. Bursting with beautiful plants and plenty of wildlife, you can truly escape for the day. There are also a range of events hosted throughout the year, from theatrical performances to historical garden tours

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ST AUSTELL MARKET HOUSE
A Grade II* listed building which has operated as a multi-use community asset for over 170 years. This 20,000 square foot granite building currently hosts a range of niche independent shops and services. Established in 1844,

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SPA & AFTERNOON TEA
At the Cornwall Hotel. Do you deserve a day of pampering? Of course you do! And what better place than at the Cornwall Hotel’s Clearing Spa. Set in natural parkland with a view of the estate’s beautiful walled garden, it boasts everything from an infinity pool to a relaxation room. Top it all off with a visit to Laura Ashley The Tea Room, brand new for 2019

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CORNWALL WATERSPORTS
Ready for action? You’ve come to the right place! Cornwall Water sports offer expert sessions in everything from paddle boarding and kayaking to windsurfing and adrenaline-filled boat rides, including banana boat rides! There’s also equipment hire, and water-lovers with their own sailing or motorboat can use our professional launching services (available from mid-May to end of September). Visit cornwallwatersports.co.uk.

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HANGLOOSE AT EDEN
Home to some of Cornwall’s biggest attractions, including England’s longest zip-wire, Hangloose is the place to be for a day of thrills! New for 2019, don’t miss Skytrek, an amazing aerial trekking course which is great fun for all the family. Situated just by the Eden Project, experience views not only of the amazing biomes and surrounding grounds but of the coast and Cornish countryside too.

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FOOTBALL GOLF
Fancy trying something new? Then why not take a trip to Cornwall Football Golf. Instead of a putter and golf ball, you use your feet and a football, with the aim of getting the football into the hole as you would in a game of golf. With obstacles in your path along the way, this makes a great day out for all ages and abilities!

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CYCLING
Exploring Cornwall by bicycle has always been popular, and there are many routes to take in and around St Austell. The Cornish Way is a 180 mile route that runs from Land’s End to Bude, and the South Coast route conveniently runs through St Austell. Why not hop onto the route and head to Truro, where you can visit its magnificent Cathedral, and cycle past the clay pits on the way.

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THE SEAHORSE
Fancy a swim? In need of tiring the kids out even further? Make a beeline for The Seahorse where you’ll find everything you need from an indoor water world, to a soft play zone and amusement arcade. Sheltered under the cliffs and with stunning sea views between St Austell and Mevagissey, this fresh and vibrant leisure venue is a wonderful setting for a day out with friends and family. Please note: swimming pool use is limited to residents of Pentewan Sands Holiday Park and Heligan Campsite during Whitsun half term and peak summer dates (25 May – 1 Jun and 20 Jul – 31 Aug)

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ST AUSTELL BREWERY AND TOUR
What could be better than an afternoon sampling award-winning beers? Interactive brewing experience gives you the opportunity to find out more about the history of the Brewery and the 160-year-old brewing process. It’s the perfect activity come rain or shine.

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WHEAL MARTYN MUSEUM
Visit Cornwall’s own Victorian Clay Works, full to the brim with history. Suitable for all the family in all weather, explore the woodland and enjoy the kids’ adventure trail too! After a day spent learning, enjoy a stop at the cafe for a refresher. Pay for a ticket once at Wheal Martyn and you can return all year for free!

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MENACUDDLE WELL
Just a short walk from St Austell town centre lies Menacuddle Well. Set in a lovely wooded valley, it was dedicated to the memory of a lost son in WW1. A recommended place to visit for peace and tranquillity, you’ll find a Grade II listed baptistery, Victorian garden and ornamental pond too.

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PENTEWAN BEACH
Gloriously wide and beautifully golden, Pentewan beach stretches for over half a mile and is as sandy as they come. Pentewan Sands can guarantee that every grain of sand is clean, beautiful and primed for beach games, sandcastle building or just sitting back and taking in the view. It is also the perfect swimming spot! Sandwiched between two headlands, it is blissfully sheltered and super safe for little paddlers too.

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HOLY TRINITY CHURCH
A focal point in St Austell town centre, the church is described as ‘the jewel in St Austell’s crown’ and at the heart of the community since it was built in the 13th-14th centuries. Well worth a visit if you haven’t been before.

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Transport and Travel

Being one of Cornwall’s biggest and most accessible towns, St Austell is easy to reach - whether you're visiting for the day, staying for a holiday, or commuting regularly. We’re well connected by road, rail, and air, making it simple to get here from across the UK and beyond.

St Austell sits on the main train line from London Paddington, with direct services running regularly via Great Western Railway. The town is also easily reached by car, with major routes like the A30 and A391 providing smooth links to the rest of Cornwall and the South West.

National Express coaches serve the area too, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option for visitors. And if you’re flying in, Cornwall Airport Newquay is just a short drive away, with regular flights to and from cities such as London, Manchester, Dublin, and Edinburgh.

Things to Do in St Austell

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