Route Two

St. Austell

The busy industrial town of St. Austell is the capital of the local china-clay industry, which rose to importance in the 18th century. Clay is still a vital factor in Cornwall's economy. China is the only other place in the world where such quality and quantity of clay can be found.

Spoil tips are a prominent feature of the surrounding landscape, viewed on a sunny day they look like snow-covered peaks, meriting the humourous name, the Cornish Alps. There are a wide variety of shops, supermarkets, restaurants and take-aways. Nine and Ten pin bowling, children's play centre, cinema and even a brewery to visit!