Par City Guide

About Par – History and Culture

Par is a small coastal village situated in southeast Cornwall, within the St Austell Bay area. Its history is deeply intertwined with the china clay industry, which boomed in the 18th and 19th centuries. Par Harbour was constructed in 1840 specifically to export china clay to potteries around the world, transforming the tiny fishing hamlet into a bustling industrial port. The harbour’s iconic crane and white clay tips are lasting reminders of this era. Today, Par has reinvented itself as a peaceful residential and tourist destination, while still retaining its gritty industrial charm. The village’s culture is a blend of traditional Cornish heritage and modern leisure, with a strong community spirit.

The modern identity of Par is shaped by its proximity to major attractions like the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, as well as its own natural assets: sandy beaches, coastal paths, and a sheltered harbour. The village has a mix of historic cottages, modern housing, and a few shops and pubs that cater to locals and visitors. Cultural events are often community-led, such as the annual Par Beach Regatta and local fêtes. The influence of the china clay industry remains visible in the landscape, with white-tipped hills and disused quarries now repurposed for recreation. Par's history is also preserved in the Par Heritage Centre, which tells the story of the clay trade and the people who worked it.

Par’s cultural identity is distinctly Cornish, with a strong sense of place and connection to the sea. The village is a gateway to the wider Cornwall region, offering a quieter alternative to the crowded tourist spots. The local community values sustainability, outdoor life, and preserving the area's natural beauty. Food culture celebrates fresh seafood, Cornish pasties, and local ales. The annual Par Christmas Lights switch-on and summer carnivals bring residents together. Par’s history of resilience—from industrial boom to post-industrial adaptation—is a source of local pride.

• Par Harbour – historic port with china clay legacy
• St Mary the Virgin Church – 1846 Gothic Revival church
• Par Heritage Centre – museum dedicated to clay mining history
• Par Beach – a Blue Flag-awarded sandy beach
• Par River – tidal river popular for birdwatching
• Boconnoc Estate – nearby historic house and gardens
• Polmear Island – a tidal island off Par beach
• South West Coast Path – national trail passing through Par
• China Clay Country Park – museum and walking trails in former clay pits
• Par Tramways – remains of industrial tramway network

Did You Know? – Facts about Par

Par may be small, but it holds a unique place in Cornwall's story. Despite its modest size, it has been a key transport and industrial hub for the region. The village's identity is shaped by the contrasting landscapes of coastal beauty and industrial heritage. Par is often overlooked by tourists who rush to larger destinations, but those who stop find a warm welcome and a slower pace of life.

The village is also notable for its ecological importance: the Par Sands area is part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its sand dune system and rare plants. The harbour is still active, serving small fishing vessels and leisure craft. Par railway station is a vital link for commuters and visitors, with direct trains to London Paddington. The iconic 'Par Gap' – the narrow entrance to the harbour – is a challenge for navigators. Par's beach has been awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safety. The Eden Project, one of the UK's top tourist attractions, is less than 10 minutes away by car, making Par a convenient base.

• Par Harbour was once the world's largest exporter of china clay.
• The Par Sands SSSI protects rare dune flora.
• Par's beach is Blue Flag accredited.
• The South West Coast Path runs directly along Par beach.
• Par has a railway station on the Cornish Main Line.
• The Eden Project's biomes are visible from higher points in Par.
• Par's population is under 3,000, offering a village atmosphere.
• The name 'Par' likely derives from Cornish 'porth' meaning harbour.
• Par's harbour is protected by a breakwater built in 1845.
• The village has a microclimate, often slightly warmer than inland areas.
• Par is a gateway to the Luxulyan Valley, a UNESCO site for its industrial archaeology.
• The local parish church clock is a notable landmark.
• Par has a thriving community allotment scheme.
• Nearby Tywardreath is a historic settlement with a priory.
• Par beach was a filming location for the BBC series 'Doc Martin'.

Geography and Climate of Par

Par lies on the southern coast of Cornwall, on the western side of St Austell Bay. The village is situated around the tidal Par River, which flows into the English Channel. The landscape is a mix of coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills inland, with the distinctive white peaks of china clay spoil tips visible from many vantage points. The area is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the nearby Luxulyan Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its industrial archaeology. Par's geography is defined by its harbour, the river estuary, and the surrounding green countryside.

The climate in Par is temperate maritime, with mild winters and cool summers. The area benefits from the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, resulting in less extreme temperatures than inland UK. Average summer highs are around 19°C (66°F), while winter lows rarely drop below 4°C (39°F). Rainfall is moderate, with about 900mm per year, slightly drier than western Cornwall. The village is sheltered from strong winds by hills, but coastal storms can bring gusts. Sunshine hours are good, with over 1,600 hours annually, making it one of the sunnier spots in the UK. The best times to visit are late spring through early autumn.

• Location: 50.354°N, 4.703°W
• St Austell Bay – local coastal area
• Par River – tidal river estuary
• Par Beach – east-facing sandy beach
• Nearby villages: Tywardreath, Golant, St Blazey
• Luxulyan Valley – deep wooded valley with granite leats
• Average temperature: summer 19°C, winter 7°C
• Annual rainfall: approx 900mm
• Sunshine: 1,600+ hours per year
• Prevailing winds: southwesterly
• Soil type: acidic, well-drained, clay-rich

Things to Do in Par

Par offers a range of activities centred around its natural environment, heritage, and proximity to Cornwall's top attractions. Whether you enjoy coastal walks, water sports, or exploring gardens, there is plenty to keep visitors engaged. The village itself has a relaxed vibe, with a few pubs, cafes, and a beach that is perfect for families. The surrounding area is rich in cultural and outdoor experiences.

Food & Dining

Par's dining scene reflects its coastal location, with fresh seafood featuring prominently. Local favourites include the Ship Inn (pub grub with harbour views), the Royal Inn (classic Cornish fare), and Par Beach Cafe (casual beachside dining). For a wider choice, nearby St Austell offers everything from fine dining to gastropubs. The region is also known for its cream teas, Cornish pasties (try the famous Warrens Bakery), and local ales from St Austell Brewery. Food festivals such as the Cornwall Food and Drink Festival in St Austell showcase local produce.

• Ship Inn – harbour pub with seafood specials
• Royal Inn – traditional pub with Sunday roasts
• Par Beach Cafe – light lunches and ice cream
• St Austell Brewery visitor centre and tours
• Local seafood: crab, lobster, mackerel
• Cornish pasty – try Oggy Oggy pasty shop
• Cream tea – scones with clotted cream and jam
• Nearby restaurants: The Roseland Inn (in Philleigh)
• Farmers markets: St Austell Market every Friday
• Cookery schools: Cornwall Colours cooking classes

Festivals & Events

Par's annual events are community-focused but attract visitors from across Cornwall. The Par Beach Regatta (August) features sandcastle competitions, water sports, and a funfair. The Par Christmas Festival includes lights switch-on and carols. Nearby St Austell hosts the Eden Sessions (summer concerts) and the St Austell Brewery Beer Festival. Other local events include the Tywardreath Fete, the Lost Gardens of Heligan's seasonal celebrations, and the Fowey Royal Regatta in August. The Cornish Festival of Dance (summer) showcases traditional Cornish dancing.

• Par Beach Regatta – August
• Par Christmas Lights switch-on – late November
• Eden Sessions – summer music concerts
• St Austell Brewery Beer Festival – October
• Fowey Royal Regatta – August
• Tywardreath Fete – June
• Lost Gardens of Heligan – seasonal events
• Cornwall Folk Festival – August (in Wadebridge)
• St Austell Food and Drink Festival – September
• New Year fireworks at Par beach

Cultural Attractions

While Par village itself has limited cultural institutions, the surrounding area is rich in heritage. The Eden Project is a world-class botanical garden with spectacular biomes and art installations. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a restored 19th-century garden with a jungle feel. The China Clay Country Park in St Austell tells the story of the clay industry. The Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro offers art and history. The National Maritime Museum in Falmouth is about an hour away. In Par, the Heritage Centre is a small but informative museum.

• Eden Project – iconic biomes and gardens
• Lost Gardens of Heligan – historic estate gardens
• China Clay Country Park – industrial history museum
• Par Heritage Centre – local clay mining history
• Royal Cornwall Museum, Truro – regional museum
• National Maritime Museum, Falmouth – maritime heritage
• Tate St Ives – modern art gallery
• Minack Theatre – open-air theatre on cliffs
• Lanhydrock House – National Trust country estate

Outdoor Activities

Par is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The South West Coast Path offers stunning walks along the coast towards Fowey or St Austell. Par Beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Luxulyan Valley provides woodland walks with industrial archaeology. The St Austell Bay area is popular for sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. Cycling routes connect Par to the Clay Trails network, which uses old railway lines. Golfers have several courses nearby, including Carlyon Bay and St Austell. The Camel Trail (around 20 miles away) is excellent for cycling.

• Coastal walks: Par to Fowey (3.5 miles) or Par to Charlestown (4 miles)
• Par Beach – swimming, sunbathing, safe for families
• Kayaking and paddleboarding at Par Harbour
• Luxulyan Valley – walking trails and granite leats
• Clay Trails – network of multi-use paths for cycling and walking
• St Austell Golf Club – 18-hole parkland course
• Carlyon Bay Golf Club – links-style course
• Fishing – harbour fishing or boat trips
• Boat trips from Fowey – seal and dolphin spotting
• Horse riding – stables near Tywardreath

Economy and Key Industries

Par's economy historically depended on china clay mining, but today it is more diversified. The village serves as a residential base for workers in nearby St Austell and the tourism industry. The Eden Project is a major employer and driver of regional tourism. China clay mining still operates on a reduced scale in the area, with companies like Imerys maintaining operations. Other industries include hospitality, retail, construction, and healthcare. Par's harbour still handles limited cargo, mainly aggregates and timber. The area is also home to light manufacturing and small businesses.

Tourism is a vital sector, with attractions like the Eden Project, Heligan, and the coastline drawing millions of visitors annually. This supports jobs in accommodation, food and beverage, and leisure activities. The digital economy is growing, with remote workers and creatives moving to the area for the lifestyle. Agriculture and fishing play a small but important role, with local produce sold at markets. The fishing fleet in Par Harbour is modest but active, landing crab, lobster, and mackerel. The local economy is supplemented by commuters who travel to Truro, Plymouth, or work from home.

Key sectors include tourism (36% of jobs), health and social care (15%), retail (12%), construction (8%), education (7%), and manufacturing including clay processing. The average salary in Cornwall is lower than the national average, but the cost of living is also lower, especially housing relative to South East England. The local council (Cornwall Council) is a major employer, as is the NHS. Self-employment is high, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit and the gig economy. Economic challenges include seasonal fluctuations and reliance on tourism.

• Tourism – Eden Project, beaches, gardens
• China clay – Imerys, Goonvean
• Harbour – cargo handling, fishing
• Retail – local shops, St Austell town centre
• Construction – housing, infrastructure
• Healthcare – Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro
• Education – schools and colleges
• Agriculture – dairy, arable, horticulture
• Fishing – crab, lobster, shellfish
• Creative industries – artists, writers, digital nomads

Where to Live in Par

Par is a compact village with several distinct residential areas. The main part of the village clusters around the harbour and the main road (A3082). Housing stock includes Victorian terraces, 1930s semis, and modern estates. The area near Par Beach has some attractive cottages and holiday homes. The 'Par Green' area is a small residential neighbourhood near the railway station. Tywardreath, just a mile inland, is a more historic village with a priory and a mix of cottages and newer homes. Golant, on the Fowey River, is a picturesque hamlet within walking distance of Par.

For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, the surrounding countryside offers farmhouses and converted barns. St Blazey, adjacent to Par, has more amenities including a supermarket and medical centre. The estate at Par Moor is a mix of social housing and private homes. Many properties in Par have sea views or glimpses of the harbour. The area appeals to retirees, families, and commuters who value coastal living. Property prices are moderate compared to other Cornish coastal towns like Padstow or St Ives. The rental market is active, especially for holiday lets. New developments are limited due to green belt constraints.

• Par Harbour area – historic cottages, harbour views
• Par Green – near station, family-friendly
• Tywardreath – historic village, good community spirit
• Golant – riverside charm, access to Fowey
• St Blazey – more amenities, larger houses
• Par Moor – modern estate, affordable housing
• Biscovey – area near the beach
• Luxulyan – rural village with character
• Bethel – area west of Par
• Housing types: terraces, semis, bungalows, farmhouses

Formalities and Visas in Par

As Par is in the United Kingdom, the same visa and immigration rules apply as for the rest of the country. Visitors from many countries (including EU, US, Canada, Australia, Japan) can enter for tourism for up to 6 months without a visa. For longer stays, work, or study, appropriate visas are required. The UK's points-based immigration system applies. The nearest visa application centre is in London or Bristol, but online applications are processed nationally. The UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) website provides full guidance.

For EU citizens, the EU Settlement Scheme has closed for new applicants, but those who were resident before 31 December 2020 can still apply for settled status. For non-EU citizens, common visa categories include Skilled Worker visa, Student visa, Family visa, and Youth Mobility Scheme. Short-term business visitors can come for specific activities without a visa. It's essential to check the latest requirements as rules change. Overstaying or working without permission can lead to penalties. Local immigration support is available through Citizens Advice Cornwall or legal advisors in St Austell.

To rent a property in Par, you will need proof of identity, right to rent documentation, and references. The right to rent check is mandatory for all tenants. Opening a bank account requires proof of address and a passport. For driving, you can use your foreign license for up to 12 months (depending on country) before needing to take a UK test. National Insurance numbers are required for work. Healthcare is available through the NHS after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable). Registering with a GP is straightforward.

• Tourist visa-free: up to 6 months for many countries
• EU Settlement Scheme – still open for late applications in some cases
• Skilled Worker visa – points-based, job offer required
• Student visa – for courses at approved institutions
• Youth Mobility Scheme – for ages 18-30 (selected countries)
• Family visa – for partners and dependents
• Right to rent checks – landlords must verify
• National Insurance – needed for work, free to obtain
• Immigration Health Surcharge – £624 per year for most visas
• Driving licence exchange allowed (for certain countries)
• Citizens Advice – free immigration guidance
• Visa application centre: nearest is London (Croydon)

Working in Par

The job market in Par itself is limited, but the wider St Austell area offers opportunities. Key employers include the Eden Project, Cornwall Council, Royal Cornwall Hospital, retail chains, and hospitality businesses. Tourism creates seasonal jobs in hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The china clay industry still employs hundreds in the region. There are also opportunities in construction, care work, and education. For professional roles, commuting to Truro (25 min), Plymouth (1 hour), or working remotely is common. The south west has a growing digital sector, with jobs in software, design, and marketing.

Average salaries are around £25,000-£30,000, which is below the UK average, but the lower cost of housing can offset this. Many residents work multiple jobs, especially in tourism season. Self-employment is popular, particularly among tradespeople, artists, and consultants. The job market is competitive, especially for well-paid positions. Networking at local events and using job sites (Indeed, Cornwall Jobs) is recommended. The local job centre is in St Austell. Apprenticeships are available in hospitality, hairdressing, construction, and engineering. The gig economy (delivery, ride-hailing) is less common in this rural area.

Working culture in Cornwall is generally friendly and informal, but professional standards apply. The pace of life is slower than in big cities, but punctuality and reliability are valued. Many businesses close early in winter. Annual leave entitlement is 28 days minimum. The minimum wage (April 2025) is £11.44 for over 23s. Workplace rights are the same as across the UK, including sick pay, maternity/paternity leave, and protections against discrimination. Local unions such as Unite or UNISON represent workers in larger sectors.

• Key sectors: tourism, healthcare, public sector, clay mining, retail
• Major employers: Eden Project, Cornwall Council, NHS, Imerys
• Average salary: £25k-£30k per year
• Seasonal work: abundant in summer, scarce in winter
• Self-employment: 15% of workforce
• Commuting to Truro, Plymouth, or remote
• Job search: Indeed, Cornwall Jobs, local newspaper
• Apprenticeships: through colleges or employers
• Minimum wage (2025): £11.44 for over 23s
• Work rights: same as UK, including holiday pay
• Union presence: in public sector and clay industry

Studying in Par

Par has a primary school (Par Primary School) which serves the local community. For secondary education, students attend Poltair School or other schools in St Austell. There are also some private schools and religious schools in the area. For further education and higher education, Cornwall College in St Austell offers vocational courses, A-levels, and adult learning. Truro College and Penwith College (in Truro) provide a wider range of courses including university-level qualifications. Falmouth University and Exeter University (Penryn Campus) are about an hour away, offering degrees in arts, sciences, and many fields.

International students can study at these universities, which are part of the University of Exeter. Student visas are required for non-UK residents. Costs vary: tuition fees for international undergraduates range from £20,000 to £30,000 per year. Student accommodation is available in Truro and Falmouth. Par’s location makes it a convenient base for commuting to Truro or Plymouth universities. Student life in Cornwall is focused on outdoor activities, with surfing, hiking, and a vibrant arts scene. There are also language schools and short courses (e.g., at Eden Project).

The quality of education in Cornwall is generally good, with many schools rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. The area also has a strong tradition of adult education and lifelong learning, with courses in gardening, crafts, and digital skills. Libraries in St Austell and Par provide free resources. For specialised study, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and the Eden Project offer learning programmes. Home schooling is also an option, with support groups locally.

• Par Primary School – ages 4-11
• Poltair School – secondary school in St Austell
• Cornwall College St Austell – FE courses
• Truro College – A-levels and vocational
• Falmouth University – arts and media degrees
• University of Exeter (Penryn) – science and humanities
• International student visa – required for non-UK
• Tuition fees international: £20k-£30k per year
• Student accommodation: halls in Truro, private rentals
• Student activities: surfing, music, theatre
• Language schools: English courses available
• Libraries: St Austell Library
• Adult education: Community learning courses

Finance and Banks in Par

Par does not have a bank branch within the village; the closest major banks are in St Austell, which has branches of Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, HSBC, and Santander. Many locals use online banking or building societies. Post Office branches in Par and St Blazey provide basic banking services like cash withdrawals, deposits, and bill payments. Cash machines are available at the post office, local shops, and at St Austell. Digital banking is widely adopted, with Monzo, Starling, and Revolut popular among younger residents. Setting up a bank account as a newcomer generally requires proof of address and identity, plus proof of residence status.

The main currency is the British pound sterling (£). International transfers can be done through banks or services like Wise or Revolut. Taxes: residents pay income tax and National Insurance through PAYE; self-employed submit self-assessment. The tax year runs April to April. The local Citizen's Advice can help with tax issues. For business, many small firms use local accountants. Financial advice is available in St Austell. Mortgages are obtainable for those with UK credit history and deposits. The area has a relatively low cost of living compared to the rest of southern England.

• Banks in St Austell (2 miles): Barclays, Lloyds, etc.
• Post Office banking in Par and St Blazey
• Cash machines: at Co-op, Spar, Post Office
• Online banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut
• Opening a bank account: ID, proof of address, right to reside
• Currency: Pound Sterling (£)
• Taxes: PAYE or self-assessment
• National Insurance: required for work
• International transfers: via banks or transfer services
• Financial advisors in St Austell
• Mortgages: require UK credit check

Health Care in Par

The UK's National Health Service (NHS) provides healthcare that is largely free at the point of use. Residents and those with valid visas (who have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge) can register with a General Practitioner (GP). The nearest GP surgery is the Par Health Centre (a branch of the St Austell Healthcare group) located in Par itself, on the main road. For more comprehensive services, there are larger GP clinics and a minor injuries unit in St Austell (St Austell Community Hospital). For major emergencies, the Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske) in Truro is the main acute hospital, about 30 minutes away. It offers A&E, maternity, and specialist care. There are also dental practices in St Austell (NHS and private), opticians, and pharmacies (Boots, Lloyds in St Austell).

Mental health services are available through the NHS (Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust) and private providers. For non-emergency medical advice, call 111. For life-threatening emergencies, dial 999. The area also has a strong network of community health services, including health visitors, district nurses, and physiotherapy. Many residents travel to Truro for hospital appointments. Private medical care is available in Truro and Plymouth. Health tourism is not common, but visitors can access emergency care if needed. Vaccinations and preventive care are standard. The local NHS trust runs various health campaigns, including for smoking cessation and weight management. The quality of healthcare in Cornwall is generally good, but waiting lists for non-urgent procedures can be long.

• Par Health Centre – GP surgery (limited hours)
• St Austell Health Centre – larger GP practice
• St Austell Community Hospital – minor injuries, outpatient
• Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro – full hospital
• NHS Dentists – limited NHS places; private available
• Pharmacies: Boots, Lloyds in St Austell
• Opticians: Specsavers, independent
• Mental health services: Cornwall Partnership NHS
• Emergency services: 999 or 111
• Health visitor: via local health visiting team
• Vaccines: routine NHS vaccinations
• Private healthcare: Bupa, Nuffield in Plymouth

Accommodation in Par

Accommodation in Par ranges from traditional stone cottages to modern flats and houses. The village has a mix of owner-occupied homes and rental properties. Short-term holiday lets are numerous, especially near the beach. For long-term renting, expect to pay around £600-900 per month for a 2-bedroom house (as of 2025). Buying a house: a 2-bedroom cottage might cost £200,000-300,000; a 3-bedroom semi-detached £250,000-350,000. Property prices are rising but remain lower than in popular hotspots like Padstow or St Ives. Social housing is available through the local council (Cornwall Housing) for those eligible. New developments are limited due to planning restrictions in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Many properties are second homes or holiday lets, which can limit long-term supply.

Renting requires a deposit (usually 5 weeks' rent), references, and right to rent checks. Furnished rentals are common in the tourist season. For those moving, it is advisable to secure accommodation before arrival, especially in summer. Agencies like Cornish Properties, Connells, and local estate agents handle rentals. For temporary stays, there are B&Bs, inns, and a few self-catering holiday cottages. The local market is tight, so early searching is recommended. Many new arrivals use the website Rightmove or Zoopla for listings. Social media groups (e.g., "Par Community News" on Facebook) also advertise rentals.

• Average rent 2-bed house: £600-900 pcm
• Average house price 2-bed: £200k-300k
• Holiday lets: plentiful, especially near beach
• Social housing: via Cornwall Housing
• Estate agents: several in St Austell
• Rightmove, Zoopla for listings
• Deposit: typically 5 weeks' rent
• Right to rent checks required
• Furnished rentals common
• Short-term: B&Bs, The Royal Inn, holiday cottages

Planning Your Move to Par

Moving to Par from within the UK or abroad requires careful planning. First, secure accommodation, then set up utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet). The local providers: Western Power Distribution (electricity), Wales & West Utilities (gas), South West Water (water). Broadband from BT, Virgin Media, or local providers. Check that rental includes council tax (band A-H). You will need to register for council tax with Cornwall Council. Obtain a National Insurance number if you plan to work (call 0800 141 2075). Register with a GP and dentist. Open a UK bank account if needed. For international moves, shipping belongings can cost £2,000-5,000 from Europe; from outside Europe, much more. Many expats choose to sell and buy new furniture locally. Local removal companies are available.

Set up mail forwarding with Royal Mail. Notify your current employer, bank, and government agencies of your change of address. If bringing a vehicle, check if you need to register it with DVLA and pay Vehicle Excise Duty. Pet owners: microchip and passport your pets under the UK pet travel scheme. Research schools for your children. Join local Facebook groups and community networks to make connections. Attend local events to integrate. Par has a welcoming community. Learn about Cornish culture and dialect (e.g., 'dreckly' means 'whenever'). Be prepared for slower paced living and fewer amenities than a city. The local council website (cornwall.gov.uk) has many resources. Consider climate – bring rain gear!

• Secure accommodation in advance
• Set up utilities: electric, gas, water, internet
• Register for council tax with Cornwall Council
• Apply for National Insurance number
• Register with GP and dentist (Par Health Centre)
• Open UK bank account (after proof of address)
• International movers: compare quotes
• Mail forwarding with Royal Mail
• Vehicle registration (DVLA) if importing
• Pet travel scheme (microchip, rabies vaccination)
• School enrolment for children
• Join local Facebook groups
• Explore public transport options
• Prepare for a quieter lifestyle

Leisure in Par

Leisure activities in Par centre around the outdoors and community. The local pubs are social hubs: The Ship Inn has a pool table and live music; The Royal Inn offers a restaurant and quiz nights. The Par Beach Cafe is a meeting spot during the day. For more varied nightlife, St Austell has clubs like Club 75 and several bars. The area has a cinema (Phoenix Cinema in St Austell) and a theatre (The Keay Theatre at the college). There are also bingo halls, bowling alleys, and a leisure centre with swimming pool in St Austell. Many residents enjoy walking groups, book clubs, and sewing circles. The Par Community Centre hosts events like coffee mornings and craft fairs.

Shopping in Par itself is limited to a Co-op convenience