Get More From Your Charlestown Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Charlestown gives you a perfect base to explore this historic harbour village whilst enjoying the luxury of your own private hot tub. The Georgian port sits on Cornwall's south coast and offers stunning coastal walks, maritime heritage and those iconic tall ships that make it one of the most photographed spots in the county.
We think Charlestown is ideal for romantic breaks and family getaways alike. The village packs authentic character into a compact area whilst giving you easy access to the Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan and some of Cornwall's best beaches. Whether you're after secluded retreats or dog friendly cottages near the coast, this area delivers.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Charlestown
Charlestown was built in the late 1700s by Charles Rashleigh who needed a port to export china clay and copper. The harbour remains virtually unchanged since Georgian times and still welcomes tall ships throughout the year. You'll find the village has doubled as locations from the Caribbean to 18th century France in countless period dramas.
Sightseeing in Charlestown
The harbour itself is the main attraction with its working port atmosphere and historic square-rigged vessels. Walk along the outer harbour wall for views across St Austell Bay or explore the narrow streets lined with cottages to let that climb up from the waterfront. The beach sits right beside the harbour and offers safe swimming when conditions allow.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Charlestown
From maritime museums to world-famous gardens, the area around Charlestown offers attractions that suit everyone. We've picked five must-visit spots within easy reach of your holiday cottages.
Shipwreck and Heritage Centre
This museum sits right in Charlestown harbour and houses the largest private collection of shipwreck artefacts in Britain. You'll see treasures recovered from wrecks around Cornwall's treacherous coastline plus exhibitions on diving history and maritime archaeology. The centre opens daily from March to October.
Eden Project
Just 15 minutes drive from Charlestown, the Eden Project features massive biomes housing rainforest and Mediterranean plants. The site covers 35 acres and includes outdoor gardens, educational exhibits and seasonal events. It's one of Cornwall's biggest draws and works brilliantly for families with children of all ages.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
These restored Victorian gardens span 200 acres and sit only 20 minutes from Charlestown. You'll find jungle areas, productive gardens, woodland walks and the famous Mud Maid sculpture. The estate includes a farm project where kids can meet rare breed animals. Open year-round with different highlights each season.
Porthpean Beach
This sheltered sandy beach lies just a mile east of Charlestown and offers calmer waters than many Cornish beaches. The Porthpean Outdoor Education Centre provides water sports activities whilst the South West Coast Path runs right past. It's quieter than nearby Carlyon Bay and perfect for families.
Mevagissey
This working fishing village sits 15 minutes south and retains genuine character despite its popularity. The double harbour still lands fresh fish daily and narrow streets wind up the hillside packed with independent shops and cafes. Visit the aquarium or simply watch boats come and go from the harbour walls.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Shipwreck and Heritage Centre | Authentic maritime artefacts and diving history in atmospheric harbour setting | Everyone |
| Eden Project | Spectacular biomes with tropical plants and year-round events | Families |
| Lost Gardens of Heligan | Restored Victorian gardens with jungle areas and rare breed animals | Everyone |
| Porthpean Beach | Sheltered sandy cove with water sports and coastal path access | Families |
| Mevagissey | Working fishing harbour with independent shops and fresh seafood | Couples |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Charlestown?
St Austell railway station sits 2 miles away with regular services from London Paddington (around 4.5 hours) and connections across Cornwall. By car, take the A390 from the A30. Local buses run from St Austell but having a car helps for exploring wider Cornwall.
What family activities are available near cottages with hot tubs in Charlestown?
The Eden Project and Lost Gardens of Heligan top the list for families. Porthpean Beach offers safe swimming and the Shipwreck Centre fascinates kids. Many holiday homes and lodges welcome children and some large cottages sleep extended families or groups.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Walk the South West Coast Path at sunset or book a table at one of Mevagissey's harbour restaurants. The harbour itself is magical in evening light. Boutique cottages and luxury cottages with jacuzzi facilities create perfect romantic breaks.
Is there good shopping nearby?
St Austell offers high street chains whilst Mevagissey and Fowey have independent galleries and craft shops. The Eden Project shop stocks unique gifts. For big shopping trips, Truro sits 30 minutes away.
Are hot tub stays suitable year-round?
Absolutely. We find hot tub breaks work brilliantly in winter when you can soak under the stars after coastal walks. Many pet friendly cottages and dog friendly properties have enclosed gardens. Book early for new year and last minute deals appear off-season.
Cottages with hot tubs in Charlestown combine coastal beauty with genuine heritage. Whether you're after cheap cottages for a 1 night escape, large holiday houses for groups or a secluded log cabin retreat, this corner of Cornwall delivers. The private hot tub adds luxury whilst places to stay put you minutes from major attractions. Visit Charlestown and you'll understand why film crews keep returning to this perfectly preserved Georgian port.