Cornwall’s Gateway to a Global Garden
Nestled on Cornwall’s south coast, St Austell is a charming town known for its rich mining history, stunning beaches, and world-famous Eden Project.
Once the heart of Cornwall’s China clay industry, today St Austell serves as a gateway to beautiful coastal landscapes, historic gardens, and one of the UK’s most unique ecological attractions.
Whether you’re exploring the town’s historic breweries, walking along the Cornish Riviera, or stepping inside the Eden Project’s futuristic biomes, St Austell is a must-visit stop on any self-drive tour of England.
The Eden Project – The World’s Largest Indoor Rainforest
A global ecological wonder, the Eden Project is a breathtaking eco-attraction set within a transformed clay pit, featuring massive futuristic biomes that house plants from across the world. A visit to the Eden Project is an unforgettable journey through different climate zones, from the lush Amazon rainforest to the vibrant Mediterranean landscapes.
What to See & Do at the Eden Project
• Explore the Rainforest Biome – Step into the world’s largest indoor rainforest, filled with towering trees, exotic flowers, waterfalls, and even a treetop canopy walkway.
• Discover the Mediterranean Biome – Experience the sights and scents of Southern Europe, California, and South Africa, surrounded by olive groves, fragrant herbs, and citrus trees.
• Visit the Outdoor Gardens – Wander through over 20 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring native Cornish plants, wildflowers, and vegetable patches.
• Learn About Sustainable Living – The Eden Project showcases cutting-edge sustainability projects, from climate change awareness to conservation efforts.
• Enjoy the Eden Zip Wire & Adventure Activities (seasonal) – For thrill-seekers, the SkyWire offers England’s longest zip line, soaring over the Eden Project.
• Attend Seasonal Events & Light Shows – From summer music concerts to magical winter light displays, the Eden Project hosts exciting year-round events.
• Dine at the Eden Kitchen – Enjoy locally sourced, sustainable meals in the on-site cafés, serving organic, plant-based, and seasonal dishes.
• Visit the Eden Shop & Plant Nursery – Take home a piece of Eden with ethically sourced gifts, books, and plants for your own garden.
What to See & Do in St Austell
• Visit the St Austell Brewery & Visitor Centre – Discover Cornwall’s famous St Austell Brewery, home of Tribute Ale and Proper Job, with brewery tours and tastings available.
• Explore Charlestown Harbour (just outside St Austell) – A beautifully preserved 18th-century port, famous for tall ships, historic maritime museums, and film locations for Poldark.
• Walk the South West Coast Path – Take a scenic coastal hike along the Cornish Riviera, stopping at Carlyon Bay, Porthpean Beach, and Mevagissey.
• Discover the Lost Gardens of Heligan (nearby) – One of England’s most enchanting gardens, featuring subtropical jungle landscapes, Victorian greenhouses, and mysterious sculptures.
• Enjoy St Austell’s Beaches – Relax on the golden sands of Pentewan Sands, Porthpean Beach, or Polkerris Beach, all within a short drive.
With its unique mix of futuristic ecology, historic charm, and stunning coastline, St Austell & the Eden Project offer a diverse and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring the world’s largest indoor rainforest, sipping a Cornish ale, or walking along breathtaking cliffs, this destination is a must-visit in Cornwall.
