For centuries the Hayle estuary proved a safe Harbour for sea going craft. With the number of metal and machine foundaries and merchant traders growing in Hayle so did the port which developed in the estuary to become one of the busiest in Cornwall.
 
From its wharves and quays goods and machinery from Hayle's foundries and the area's mines were exported world wide and along the same wharves and quays shipyards launched and decommissioned ships with proud names.