LOCATION
On the south coast of Cornwall lies Carlyon Bay, the mile-long seafront of St Austell. Carlyon Bay consists of three beaches, each distinct in character and beauty. Easy to find, with good parking, and year-round public access.
CRINNIS
To the west lies Crinnis Beach with its distinct outcrop of rock, commonly known as Crinnis Island, sloping gently seawards.
SHORTHORN
The central beach, Shorthorn, hosts the trickling sounds of the Sandy River meandering its way to sea.
POLGAVER
A rich and verdant nature reserve completes this unbroken stretch of coastline.
A WALK ON THE HIGH SIDE
The bay is shielded by a series of cliffs, offering walkers exceptional views from the South West Coast Path which meanders its way around the clifftops.
BY AIR
Carlyon Beach is 20 miles from Newquay Airport with flights to UK airports.
BY TRAIN
Carlyon Bay is two and a half miles from either Par or St Austell stations. The Paddington line gives easy access from London and the rest of the UK.
BY CAR
Carlyon Bay is 8 miles from the A30, the main road from Exeter to Penzance. From Bodmin, take the A391 towards St Austell and follow the signs to Carlyon Bay.
LOCAL AREA
As always in Cornwall, there is so much more to discover.
ST AUSTELL
Carlyon’s closest town, St Austell, is an area rich in cultural heritage, natural beauty, wildlife, and creative communities.
CHARLESTOWN
Step into the world of Poldark with a visit to the charming port of Charlestown, famed for its tall ships and original Grade II listed harbour. We can’t promise Aidan Turner but you’ll fall in love with this quintessential fishing village.
FOWEY
With a tumble of pastel-coloured houses and picturesque pubs overlooking one of Cornwall’s finest natural harbours, chic Fowey is a sailor’s haven. Once the sea mists roll in, you’ll see why Daphne du Maurier set her classic Rebecca here.
THE LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN
These enchanting botanical gardens were lovingly restored in the early 1990s after decades of wilderness. Wander through 200 acres ablaze with giant rhododendrons, camellia and ferns, plus an exotic outdoor jungle and pioneering wildlife project. While away an afternoon rediscovering these most famous of lost gardens.
EDEN PROJECT
Want to explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest? Then head to the Eden Project. This remarkable eco-park has a stunning collection of plants from around the world, housed in giant biodomes. It’s in full bloom culturally, too, with summer concerts and year-round events.