St Austell Hostels

St Austell, a town on the coast of Cornwall that's easy to reach either by bus or by train or by car, is the largest town in Cornwall, and a good central location to visit several of Cornwall's most beautiful and scenic attractions. The town itself is quite busy, with lots of alleyways and shops, and plenty of things to do day or night.

However, for some more exciting attractions, catch a bus or train or train out of town. The countryside is quite lovely if you have a car and want to go for a drive as well. The Eden Project or the Lost Gardens of Heligan are cool day trips, especially if you are interested in botany or conservation. Tintagel is a little farther north, but also worth the trip if you are interested in history and legend. St. Michaels Mount is a nearby must see for anyone. A small castle on an island, only able to be reached by a small causeway that floods during high tide (never fear, there is a ferry that shuttles people back and forth during high tide), St. Michaels Mount boasts spectacular views, and on a clear sunny day you can see for miles.

For the backpacker on foot using public transportation throughout Cornwall, be sure to buy a Cornwall Day Rider Pass (valid on all trains and buses in Cornwall) -- it will save a small fortune on travel funds.

St Austell is a good place to visit in the summer, but it can get busy with tourists, so consider going at least when it isn't a school holiday to avoid families at your St Austell hostel.