11th August 2020
8 things to do in Charlestown this Summer
A journey into Charlestown is like stepping back in time, it is the only 18th-century Georgian harbour to remain open in the UK and has had little modernisation, setting a dramatic stage against the seascape that surrounds it.
You can access Charlestown via a 25-minute walk along the scenic south-west coastal path, or within five minutes by car or taxi.
- Enjoy coffee with a view.
Cubs Coffee is new to the harbourside for 2020, grab a seat or take a coffee along with you when exploring the shore. Many of the other bars and restaurants will also offer take out drink options, so be sure to enquire if you see something that takes your fancy.
- Try out a variety of cocktails, rum or Cornish Moonshine at one of the many bars and restaurants.
The Boathouse offers a great selection of cocktails, with rustic outdoor seating overlooking the harbour. Rebellion, with its stylised interior featuring a boat rooted into the ceiling, is the home of Cornish Moonshine. New to the harbourside this year is Rum Sailor, with over 100 different bottles of rum to try out whilst you relax in colourful deck chairs overlooking the water.
- Discover local artisans.
Charlestown Gallery is situated in the heart of the Charlestown and features a diverse range of artisanal work by local artists. From homeware to glass and ceramics, to paintings and prints, you will be sure to find a piece of Cornwall to bring home with you.
- Explore local history.
The Shipwreck Treasure Museum delves into the stories that make this historic port what it is today, along with over 8,000 finds from over 150 shipwrecks. You’ll find out about the ambition and the peril faced by those who braved the waters and how this port has been favoured by over 100 Hollywood directors, including Dr Who, Alice in Wonderland and Poldark.
- Sail across the coast.
This August you can set sail along the coast aboard 1904 channel pilot cutter ‘Mascotte’, from September you can join the ‘Anny’ a 1930 topsail schooner. Three or six-hour sailing trips are offered, including refreshments, with the six-hour trip providing an onboard lunch. You will often see these large vessels moored inside the harbour as you wander around the historic port.
- Stroll along the beach.
Charlestown has its own small beaches, covered in pebbles and occasionally sea glass. The larger of the two has caves and rock pools that are a wonder to explore, but both have an uninterrupted view of the ocean and Cornish coastline.
- Freshly caught fish and chips.
Seafood is a speciality in Charlestown, with many restaurants offering freshly caught dishes to tantalise taste buds. If you’d like to try Cornish mussels, visit The Longstore – they have options for takeaway, harbourside dining or seating inside their top floor, airy restaurant. A newcomer to the harbourside, popular with locals, is the Charlestown Fish Co, serving a variety of exciting seaside dishes (including traditional fish and chips) in the sunshine.
- Walk around the harbour.
Charlestown Harbour is a UNESCO world heritage site; there is so much to take in as you walk around. From locals fishing off the edge of the harbour, to the historic presence of the ships that moor there, when set against the dramatic cliffscape and sea views, you’ll be in awe at the detail that surrounds you. Will you recognise any famous film locations?
To find out more about the businesses mentioned in this article, please see below:
(In order of appearance)
Cubs Coffee | 07414555883 | Facebook
Rebellion Charlestown | 01726 839888 | Facebook
The Boathouse | 01726 63322 | Facebook
Rum Sailor | 07923 161799 | Facebook
Charlestown Gallery | 01726 67886 | Facebook
The Shipwreck Treasure Museum | 01726 69897 | Facebook
Sailing at Charlestown Harbour | 01726 70241 | Website
The Longstore | 01726 68598 | Facebook
Charlestown Fish Co | charlestownfishco@gmail.com | Facebook
