Charlestown Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Charlestown Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Charlestown packs a lot into a small area. The harbour itself is worth hours of exploration - it's one of the last working Georgian ports in the UK and home to a collection of tall ships. The harbour scenes in Poldark were filmed here and I'm always amazed how little CGI they needed!

The Shipwreck Treasure Museum (PL25 3AA, open 10am-5pm daily) houses thousands of artifacts from over 150 shipwrecks and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Their collection of diving equipment shows how recovery methods have changed over centuries.

Nearby, the Eden Project (PL24 2SG) is just 15 minutes by car. This world-famous attraction features massive biomes housing plants from around the world. TripAdvisor rates it 4.5/5 and we think it's a must-visit even if you've been before - they're always adding new exhibits.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan (PL26 6EN, open 10am-6pm summer, 10am-5pm winter) sits 20 minutes away and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. These gardens were forgotten after WWI and only rediscovered in 1990. The jungle area feels like you've stepped into another world.

Pet Friendly

Bringing your dog to Charlestown? You'll find plenty of options. Charlestown Beach allows dogs year-round on the west side, while the east side has seasonal restrictions (October-Easter only).

The Rashleigh Arms pub (PL25 3NJ) welcomes dogs in their bar area and garden. They serve good food and keep water bowls filled for thirsty pups. I've seen them hand out treats too!

For longer walks, the South West Coast Path runs right through Charlestown. Head east toward Porthpean for stunning views or west toward Carlyon Bay. Both routes offer about 45 minutes of walking each way - perfect for burning off energy before returning to your hot tub cottage.

Tip: The Charlestown Stores (PL25 3NJ) stocks emergency dog supplies if you forget anything. They're open 8am-8pm daily and have saved many a holiday!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Charlestown

1. Charlestown Harbour (PL25 3NJ) - This unspoiled Georgian port feels like stepping back in time. The tall ships moored here change regularly, but there's usually at least one to admire. Access to the quay is free, though there's a small fee (£3.50) to board the ships when open to visitors. One visitor wrote: "We spent hours just watching the boats and imagining what life was like for sailors 200 years ago."

2. Charlestown Beach - This small shingle and sand beach sits right next to the harbour. At low tide, you'll find rock pools perfect for crabbing (the shop near the harbour sells nets). The water quality is rated "Excellent" by the Environment Agency. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "Not the biggest beach, but the setting next to the tall ships makes it magical."

3. Shipwreck Treasure Museum (PL25 3AA) - Housing Europe's largest private collection of shipwreck artifacts, this museum tells fascinating stories of maritime disasters and recoveries. The underground tunnel exhibit is particularly atmospheric. Adult tickets cost £10 with family discounts available. Recent visitor feedback: "The guided tour brought the exhibits to life - I learned so much about Cornwall's maritime history."

Is Charlestown suitable for children?

Yes! Kids love the tall ships, beach rock pools and the Shipwreck Museum has a special treasure hunt trail. The Rebellion play area in nearby St Austell (PL25 4EJ, 5 minutes drive) is brilliant for burning off energy on rainy days.

How far is Charlestown from the Eden Project?

The Eden Project is just 4.5 miles away - about 15 minutes by car. There's also the 101 bus from Charlestown that stops at Eden Project (journey time approximately 30 minutes).

Are there good restaurants in Charlestown?

Absolutely! The Longstore (PL25 3NJ) specializes in steaks and seafood with harbor views. The Rashleigh Arms serves excellent pub food and Wreckers offers fresh seafood. Book ahead in summer as they get very busy.

Can you swim at Charlestown Beach?

Yes, but there's no lifeguard service. The water quality is excellent, but be aware of tides and harbor traffic. For safer swimming, head to Porthpean Beach (5 minutes drive) which has seasonal lifeguards.

Is parking difficult in Charlestown?

The main car park (PL25 3NJ) fills quickly in summer. Arrive before 10am or after 4pm for better chances. Many cottages have dedicated parking - a huge bonus in peak season!

What's the best time to visit Charlestown?

June and September offer warm weather without the crowds. If you visit in winter, you'll have the harbor almost to yourself - perfect for storm watching from your hot tub!

Some helpful links:

1. Eden Project Official Website
2. Shipwreck Treasure Museum
3. Lost Gardens of Heligan
4. South West Coast Path