Visit Lappa Valley this summer, and enjoy the full steam train experience on one of the oldest train track beds in Cornwall. Park in the car park and ride in on one of the park’s steam engines – will it be Zebedee, Muffin, Arthur, Eric, The Duke Of Cornwall or Apt?
For kids and those of you who never grew up, there’s plenty to do. Row a canoe on the boating lake at East Wheal Rose, take your toddler through the maze to learn about the high pressure steam engine’s inventor Richard Trevithick, or have a go at Crazy Golf. If you fancy a walk, Lappa Valley has its very own nature trail that follows the Great Western Railway Embankment – climb up the hills to see picturesque views of the track and don’t forget to bring the dog along!
There are lots of spots for the children to play (that’s if they want to get off the steam engines!) The outdoor play areas include a fort for the kids to take over, a ship to commandeer, swings, pedal cars, climbing frames and of course a giant tube slide! Look out for the picnic tables (often offering a much needed rest for adults), next to which there are play trains and football nets to keep the children amused. Indoor carriages include a play fort, wheelie bugs, crazy mirrors and table football. Be sure to bring £1 for the coin operated cars and bikes at East Wheal Rose though as these are the only rides that aren’t included!
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, head to the café, which uses local produce to cook up a variety of hot and cold lunchtime meals, as well as a kids menu, Cornish cream teas, home made cakes and Cornish ice cream. Over 60’s can enjoy a cream tea at the Whistle Stop Café after their own trip on a steam train.
Coming from Trevemper Roundabout (past the Gannel in Newquay), follow the road and turn left to St Newlyn East. Enter the village, go past the Post Office and The Pheasant Inn and follow the road down.
Read more about the rich and interesting history of Lappa Valley here
Thanks to © Steven Hughes from Flickr
