Harbour
Charlestown is the last open 18th Century Georgian harbour in the UK and is proud to be a UNESCO world heritage site
When you enter Charlestown Harbour in Cornwall you are transported back in time. The Harbour has a unique history and geography and remains a vibrant working port, with classic tall ships, beautiful beaches and great places to eat and drink whilst enjoying the breath-taking views.
Charlestown Harbour is a great place to spend the day. The Harbour, built in the late 1700s, has some fascinating architecture to admire. Visitors can stroll this historic site whilst taking in amazing views over St Austell Bay. A walk between the quays includes walking over the famous lock gate, which is a must for many.
From 1st April – 31st October unique the Inner Harbour is open – free of charge – to visitors who can explore the history of the Harbour from within.
The Harbour has a fantastic range of food a drink outlets on offer. Whether it’s a coffee, pasty, rum cocktail or braised beef brisket, there’s something for everyone to sit and enjoy whilst taking in the views of the harbour and tall ships.
History
Charlestown has a fascinating history that visitors can explore during a scenic tour of the Inner Harbour. The Harbour was designed and built in the late 1700s and remains unspoilt to this day.
Over the years, Charlestown has been at the heart of many an industry, from fishing and China Clay to film and TV production and tourism.
Visit
Whether you are visiting Cornwall on holiday or a local looking for a fun day out for the family, Charlestown Harbour has something for everyone.
For some, Charlestown’s intriguing, unique history is what makes it special. From initial construction in the late 1700s, to being a busy working China Clay port, the Harbour for many is a place of fascination. Whilst the last clay ship left many years ago, the the Harbour remains a working port, full of classic, traditional ships. It’s a beautiful setting for a walk around the quays and has a great choice of places to eat and drink.
Film and television fans love to come and see some of the places in their favourite films and shows. From walking in Ross Poldark’s steps, to standing where Michael Caine stood in The Eagle Has Landed our iconic Harbour has a varied and interesting history as a filming location.
There are two tranquil beaches to choose from, and they are a great place to sit and enjoy the views of St Austell Bay.
Lockgate
In Autumn 2024 Charlestown Harbour will commence the Lockgate Regeneration Project. The Harbour is delighted that Cornwall Council has awarded £656,047 from the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund to assist with this critical initiative.
Charlestown Harbour’s lockgate is the single most important element of the Harbour, linking the Harbour with the open waters of the Atlantic. The lockgate protects the Inner Harbour and the vessels moored therein from the elements and enables harbour operations all year round. In the summer months, it also protects the seasonal local businesses and enables safe public access, enabling Charlestown Harbour’s heritage and culture to be shared with everyone.
The existing lockgate was installed in 1971 and prior to current ownership, maintenance of the lockgate was lacking. Since current ownership (2018), the lockgate has undergone regular maintenance and repair, but sadly the historical damage was done. Additionally, in 2021, Storm Darcy caused significant damage to the lockgate. The lockgate regeneration project will enable the use of the lockgate for some 15 years plus.
The project will benefit local residents, businesses and visitors (those that arrive by both land and sea). This unique heritage harbour will be protected and therefore still be enjoyed by all who use it and visit, making it an extremely worthwhile investment for the Shared Prosperity fund.
The Lockgate Regeneration Project will commence in Autumn 2024 and be completed in early 2025.
