St. Austell Bay Ale Trail

Your adventure begins in the charming port of Charlestown, known for its tall ships and historic stone harbour, which has appeared in films like Poldark and Treasure Island. You can stay at either The Rashleigh Arms, an award-winning inn with a sunny beer garden, or The Pier House Hotel, perfectly positioned at the edge of the harbour, offering rooms with sea views. After settling in, you’ll start your walk the next day from Mevagissey, navigating one of the tougher sections of the South Coast Path. The route takes you past hidden beaches like Polstreath, the abandoned village of Portgiskey, and the long golden sands of Pentewan, where you can stop for refreshments at The Ship Inn or the Pixie Cove Cream Tea Shop. As you continue, dramatic cliffs and coves lead you to the Black Head Promontory, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of St Austell Bay and Fowey. The walk then takes you through Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Nature Reserve and ends at Charlestown, where you descend back to the historic harbour and your accommodation.

From Charlestown Harbour, the route heads towards Fowey, passing the edge of china clay country before skirting Par Sands. You arrive into Fowey, a historic harbour town with excellent restaurants, harbour views, and a lively waterfront atmosphere.

The walk from Looe to Fowey along the South West Coast Path covers 12 miles (19.3 km) of stunning coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, steep cliffs, and picturesque villages. Starting in the bustling fishing town of Looe, you’ll pass the medieval remains of Lemanna Chapel and ascend along steep cliffs, with opportunities to spot seabirds and dolphins. Highlights include the scenic Talland Bay and Looe Island, a wildlife-rich nature reserve. If you prefer a shorter walk, you can begin in Polperro, with its winding streets and ancient harbour. Key sights along the way include Raphael Cliff, Blackybale Point’s natural rock arch, the secluded Lansallos Cove, Pencarrow Head, and Lantic Bay with its golden sands. After passing Blackbottle Rock and the remains of St Saviours Chapel, you’ll descend into Polruan and take a small passenger ferry across the River Fowey to the charming town of Fowey. Here, explore narrow streets filled with quaint shops and cafes, visit the Fowey Museum, and relax with a cream tea by the river, soaking in the picturesque views. This walk is an unforgettable journey through Cornwall’s coastal beauty and literary heritage.

On a rest day in Charlestown, you'll enjoy a complimentary tour of the St Austell Brewery, where you'll get a deep dive into the rich history and craftsmanship behind Cornwall's renowned ales. During the tour, knowledgeable guides will take you through the brewery’s inner workings, sharing fascinating stories about its heritage and founder, Walter Hicks. Not only will you learn about the brewing process, but you'll also have the chance to sample some of their finest creations. After the tour, unwind in the brewery’s welcoming taproom, where you can enjoy a flight of ales paired with local snacks, all while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and mingling with fellow beer enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced beer connoisseur or just starting your journey into craft brewing, this experience is sure to be a memorable part of your walking adventure.

On your St Austell Bay Ale Trail, consider taking an optional rest day at the iconic Eden Project, a marvel of horticultural innovation. This vast ecological site features stunning biomes that house diverse plant species from around the globe, allowing you to explore lush rainforests, Mediterranean gardens, and much more. Wander through the winding pathways, absorb the awe-inspiring landscapes, and learn the fascinating stories behind the plants flourishing in these biodomes. After a day of exploration, relax at one of the charming on-site cafes, where you can savor local dishes and refreshments. With its commitment to sustainability and education, the Eden Project not only captivates visitors but also deepens our understanding of the environment. It's the perfect blend of leisure and learning during your walking holiday, and the short journey back to Charlestown will leave you refreshed, ready to enjoy a well-earned pint of St Austell ale while swapping stories from your day.