Living in Par

Life in Par is underpinned by a genuine sense of community, where neighbours know each other and local clubs and events take centre stage. The area is especially popular among families and retirees, with regular community gatherings, fundraising events, and activities taking place at the Par Community Association and local church halls.

The South West Coast Path passes through Par, providing plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The village green and Par Beach promenade come alive in summer, with local fairs and beach events. Proximity to the Eden Project and the Cornish countryside means there are always new activities to enjoy, whether it’s outdoor yoga, craft markets, or family-friendly expos. The pace of life is unhurried and connection with the outdoors is an integral feature of living in Par.

Par is generally perceived as a safe, peaceful place to live, consistent with much of rural Cornwall. Crime rates in Par remain comparatively low, with most incidents tending to be minor and often related to non-violent offences. There is an active neighbourhood policing team based in nearby St Austell, supporting visible patrols and community engagement.

Local safety initiatives include Neighbourhood Watch schemes, which encourage residents to keep the community secure and well-informed. Par benefits from a strong sense of community and locals are proactive in maintaining a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, making the area reassuring for both families and older residents.

Parking in Par is generally convenient, with free and pay-and-display parking available close to the beach and village centre. On-street parking in residential streets is common, though it can become more limited during the peak summer tourist season, particularly near Par Beach. Some roads operate resident permit schemes, and private driveways are prevalent in many parts of the village.

Traffic congestion in Par is usually minimal, except during holiday weekends when coastal traffic increases. Access to the A390 connects Par with nearby towns, and the roads are generally well maintained. Key destinations include:

• St Austell – approx. 10 minutes via A390 (3 miles)
• Fowey – approx. 15 minutes via B3415 (5 miles)
• Truro – approx. 30 minutes via A390 (22 miles)
• Plymouth – approx. 1 hour 15 minutes via A38 (40 miles)

Day-to-day road access is straightforward, contributing to Par’s appeal for those who want easy travel within Cornwall.

Par offers a selection of well-loved local pubs, traditional fish and chip shops, and cafés catering to both residents and seasonal visitors. The Ship Inn is a favourite for its inviting atmosphere and hearty food, while the Welcome Home Inn serves locals with pub grub and ales. The village and surrounding coastline have several cafés with sea views, ideal for coffee or light meals after a walk on the beach.

In nearby Fowey and St Austell, a broader range of restaurants can be found, spanning Cornish seafood restaurants, bistros, and takeaways. Par itself is more about relaxed, low-key socialising than a bustling nightlife scene, with most entertainment focused around community events or the pubs. For more vibrant night-time options, St Austell offers bars, live music venues, and a cinema, all within easy reach by car, bus, or taxi.

Par is considered highly family friendly, with its safe, walkable streets and a strong local community. Schools are well regarded, especially the local primary and nearby secondary options, attracting parents who value educational standards. Spacious parks, the sandy expanse of Par Beach, and nearby green spaces provide ample room for children to play and explore.

Childcare options are available locally, and the low crime rates further enhance the sense of safety for families. Community groups and clubs invite children and parents alike to get involved in village life. Local events, beach days, and proximity to attractions like the Eden Project offer ongoing family activities through the year.

Pet-friendly living in Par is straightforward and enjoyable, with vast open spaces, dog-welcoming beaches, and a friendly attitude to four-legged companions. Par Beach allows dogs all year round, making it a popular spot for morning and evening walks. The coastal paths and rural lanes give pets plenty of room to roam, and several local cafés and pubs cater to dog owners.

There are veterinary clinics and pet shops in nearby St Austell, and the village itself has pet supplies available. Most housing in Par features gardens or easy access to green space, ensuring life is comfortable for both pets and their owners.

Par’s location on the Cornish Main Line gives residents robust access to the wider transport network, making it one of the best-connected villages on the south Cornwall coast. Par railway station is on the mainline between Penzance and London Paddington, offering regular direct trains to Truro, Plymouth, Exeter and further afield. Services also connect to branch lines, making travel throughout Cornwall straightforward.

Bus routes run frequently from Par to local towns including St Austell, Fowey, and Newquay. The road network via the A390 provides access to St Austell and the major A30 trunk road, which is the key artery through Cornwall. Newquay Cornwall Airport is just under an hour’s drive away, offering domestic flights to major UK cities.

Typical commute times from Par:

• St Austell – approx. 10 minutes by car (3 miles) or 6 minutes by train
• Truro – approx. 30 minutes by car (22 miles) or 40 minutes by train
• Plymouth – approx. 1 hour 15 minutes by car (40 miles) or 1 hour 10 minutes by train
• London Paddington – approx. 5 to 5.5 hours by direct train

Primary Schools in Par
Par and the surrounding area are served by several well-regarded primary schools. Par has its own Par Bay Primary School, offering a nurturing environment for young pupils and consistently encouraging community engagement. A little further afield are Bishop Bronescombe C of E School (rated "Good" by Ofsted, 2022) in St Austell and Tywardreath School, which also enjoys a positive reputation locally.

Secondary Schools
The nearest large secondary is Penrice Academy in St Austell, rated "Outstanding" by Ofsted in 2014 and recognised for its academic achievements and wide-ranging curriculum. Poltair School, also in St Austell, offers strong pastoral support and a community-oriented ethos.

Colleges & Sixth Forms
Higher education for teens is primarily provided by Cornwall College St Austell, which offers an extensive range of courses, apprenticeships, and vocational training for 16–19 year olds. Brannel School in nearby St Stephen provides additional sixth form opportunities within driving distance.

Universities
While Par itself does not have a university, the main higher education provider for the region is Falmouth University, located approximately 40 minutes’ drive from Par. The University of Exeter also has a Penryn campus, expanding access to further education opportunities for local students.