Charlestown Beach

Charlestown is an unspoilt example of a late Georgian working port, still being used today. It offers two beaches on either side of the harbour.

The harbour dates back to between 1791 and 1801 when Charles Rashleigh a member of the local landowning family, built it in response to the growth of the local mining industry. Originally built to export copper and import coal, it was soon being used for the export of China Clay.

Today the port town remains unspoilt and retains much of its original Georgian character. This has lead to Charlestown being a popular location for film and television, and to some extent this has probably helped subsidise its existence and prevent development. Some of it’s credits include Poldark, Hornblower and Mansfield Park.

As well as being a harbour location Charlestown capitalises on it’s past by hosting a fleet of square riggers ships. There are usually at least one of these magnificent ships in the harbour adding to the overall character. The Shipwreck, Rescue and Heritage Centre is located in one of the old China Clay buildings and centre contains a number of exhibits relating to Charlestown’s maritime past along with more general shipwreck salvage from Cornwall’s coast.

The two beaches sit either side of the harbour and parking and all facilities within Charlestown are within easy reach.