CHARLESTOWN

• GBCHF
• Latitude: 56.0341
• Longitude: -3.50129
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Charlestown Cornwall PL25 3NX UK

Charlestown, located on the south coast of Cornwall, England, is a small yet historically significant port. Renowned for its well-preserved Georgian harbor, it offers a unique glimpse into maritime history, having originally been developed in the late 18th century by local entrepreneur Charles Rashleigh for the export of copper and import of coal. Today, Charlestown is more commonly recognized as a scenic destination, frequently appearing in television and film productions such as "Poldark."

Description and Specifications:

Harbor Characteristics:

• Georgian Harbor: The centerpiece of Charlestown is its largely unaltered Georgian harbor, reflecting maritime architecture from the late 1700s.
• Old Quay: The harbor includes an original stone quay, which has been maintained meticulously over the centuries.
• Lock Gates: The harbor is equipped with historical lock gates to maintain water levels within the inner basin, accommodating tidal changes.

Dimensions:

• Harbor Basin: The inner basin, accessed via lock gates, has dimensions permitting the mooring of traditional tall ships, a nod to its historical roots.
• Draft: The draft may vary as it is historically influenced; current usage often involves smaller vessels rather than modern large cargo ships.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Mooring Spaces: Limited mooring spaces primarily for historical and recreational vessels.
• Ship Repair Yard: Historically, the port included ship repair facilities, some of which still cater to the maintenance of traditional vessels.
• Visitor Accommodations: The port area includes visitor attractions, maritime museums, dining establishments, and boutique shops.

Services:

• No Major Cargo Handling: Unlike larger modern ports, Charlestown does not handle commercial cargo on a large scale.
• Tourism and Educational Activities: The port area serves as a hub for educational tours and maritime heritage events.

Navigation and Access:

• Access: While functional for maritime activity, Charlestown’s harbor access is more suited to smaller, historically accurate vessels due to its preserved state.
• Navigational Aids: Limited modern navigational aids; more reliant on traditional methods suited to its preserved state.

Historical Significance:

• UNESCO: As part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape, Charlestown was nominated for potential World Heritage status owing to its well-preserved state.
• Filming Location: Frequently used as a filming location due to its authentic historical appearance, contributing to its cultural significance.

Charlestown's maritime port, with its historical ambiance, remains an attraction primarily for historical enthusiasts, tourists, and those interested in traditional maritime activities rather than commercial shipping. Its preserved state makes it a unique site of cultural and historical interest, reflecting the maritime heritage of Cornwall.