Historic St Austell

The ancient town of St. Austell can trace its roots back to 1189 when it left the jurisdiction of the Manor of Tewington and became a market town in its own right. Originally it served as a centre for the agricultural community but became an industrial centre when tin, copper and china clay were discovered on the hills around St.Austell.

With the prosperity that the mining industry brought, the town expanded rapidly and it possesses a rich architectural heritage. If you stroll down Fore Street looking at the first floor properties you will see it still retains the features of 17th and 18th century and has barely changed.

Many of the historical buildings were built as the town responded to the preaching of John Wesley who first visited in 1755 and numerous meeting houses or chapels were constructed. Now we have the exciting redevelopment of the Aylmer Square area which will ensure St. Austell retains it place as an economic centre for locals and visitors.

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