Domes, docks and dunes… a guide to South Cornwall

East Cornwall is proud of its heritage and combines history with modern day attractions to provide something for everyone.

Contrast the beautiful Lost Gardens of Heligan with the amazing contemporary Eden Project; the hands-on history of the China Clay Mining Museum or the Shipwreck and Heritage Centre and tall ships of Charlestown Harbour with the excitement of Flambards Adventure Park and Dobwalls Theme Park. Compare a beer sampling tour of St Austell Brewery with a tour of 18th Century Bodmin Gaol; see the variety of wildlife on Bodmin Moor, then walk the stunning East Cornish coastal paths to see a totally different natural world.

The Georgian port of Charlestown remains unspoilt and retains much of its character. This unique combination has lead to Charlestown being a popular location for film and television locations. Credits include Poldark, Hornblower, Mansfield Park and, more recently, Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland.

There is usually at least one square rigger ship in the harbour at Charlestown giving you an interesting glimpse into the fascinating world of the past. Who can fail to visit this area of Cornwall without seeing the world famous and amazing Eden Project? A million people visit every year to see the awe-inspiring structure of the domes, the captivating exhibits and the spell-binding plants. Carlyon Bay itself is surrounded by low cliffs and is divided into three breach areas: Crinnis, Shorthorn (a site of national importance according to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust) and Polgaver. Above the beach the area is now used as a golf course and along the cliff top runs the South West coast path.