Charlestown Harbour Reopens – What’s Next as Lock Gate Regeneration Nears Completion?

Charlestown Harbour has reopened to the public as work on its multi-million-pound lock gate regeneration project edges closer to completion.

The historic Georgian harbour – the last open one of its kind in the UK and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is once again welcoming visitors along its cobbled, grade II listed inner walkways, completely free of charge.

Harbour Life Returns

A seasonal mix of independent pop-up businesses has returned to the inner harbour, including popular favourites like Charlestown Fish Co, known for freshly prepared crab sandwiches, Moules and fish & chips, and The Deck eatery.

Other returning spots include Cornish Cream, Scuttlebutt Tavern, Harbour Gifts, and A Little Bit of Cornwall, which showcases local artists and crafts. A new pop-up pub, Smugglers on the Harbour, has also opened its doors, and Arty Fish, a handmade nautical art shop, will open soon.

Easter Sea Shanties and More to Come

Visitors this Easter Sunday (20th April) will be treated to free live music from The Lemonaires, a Cornish a cappella group based near Falmouth. Performing from 3pm to 5pm on the knuckle of the inner harbour, they’ll sing sea shanties about Cornwall’s deep-rooted history in mining, fishing and farming.

A wider programme of events is expected to be revealed shortly.

Regeneration Work Continues

Work to reinstate the lock gate began in 2024 and is set to continue through to later this summer. Despite tough winter conditions, progress has been made on this extensive regeneration project, which also includes annual maintenance, essential repairs, and the repair of storm damage.

The total cost of the project is more than £2 million, with £656,047 coming from the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, awarded via the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme. The remainder has been privately funded by the harbour’s owner.

“The Single Most Important Element”

Charlestown harbourmaster Mat Chapman said:

“The lock gate is the single most important element of Charlestown’s port, as it links the harbour with the open waters of the Atlantic. Not only does it serve to protect the inner harbour, and the vessels moored within, but also the seasonal local business and public access.

“The vital Lock Gate Regeneration Project means that the harbour’s heritage and culture can continue to be shared safely with mariners and visitors, while safeguarding it for future generations. After months of hard work, in very challenging conditions, we’re pleased to welcome everyone back to enjoy it.”

To learn more about the Lock Gate Regeneration Project or to plan your visit, head to www.charlestownharbour.com.