Nestled in the picturesque countryside near Newquay, Cornwall, Lappa Valley is a unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and historic railway charm. Known as “Cornwall’s Secret World of Play and Trains,” Lappa Valley has delighted families for over 50 years, offering a rich mix of attractions from steam trains to nature trails. Below, we’ll explore the history, attractions, and experiences that make Lappa Valley a top destination for families and railway enthusiasts.

The History of Lappa Valley

Lappa Valley Railway was established in 1974, repurposing an old mineral line in Cornwall to create a family attraction that celebrates railway history and scenic exploration. Originally serving Cornwall’s mining industry, the East Wheal Rose line was transformed into a leisure railway as interest in heritage trains grew. Over the years, Lappa Valley has expanded, welcoming visitors to explore Cornwall’s countryside while preserving the area’s rich industrial history.

In celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2024, Lappa Valley is hosting a gala weekend with special train services, historical exhibitions, and memorable family activities. A highlight of the weekend will be the unveiling of “Zebedee,” the valley’s first-ever engine, restored and operational for the first time in three years.

Top Attractions at Lappa Valley

Steam and Diesel Train Rides

Lappa Valley’s historic trains are a big draw, offering scenic rides through lush greenery and captivating views. The main railway, including 15-inch and 7¼-inch gauge tracks, lets visitors ride classic locomotives such as the “Muffin” steam engine. For younger visitors, the Woodland Railway provides an interactive experience on a miniature track.

Outdoor Adventure Playground and Soft Play

Lappa Valley isn’t just about trains; it also features a large, natural play area with slides, climbing frames, and water activities designed to spark creativity and exploration. The park’s indoor soft play zone is ideal for toddlers and younger children, especially on rainy days.

Canoeing on the Lake

Paddling around the boating lake in canoes is another popular activity, especially during the summer months. The lake is shallow and safe, making it perfect for young children and beginner paddlers. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, pedal boats are also available.

Nature Trails and Wildlife Spotting

Lappa Valley’s well-maintained nature trails offer an immersive experience in Cornwall’s natural beauty, home to diverse flora and fauna. These trails offer a unique chance to spot local wildlife such as herons, ducks, and other native species in their natural habitat.

Mini Golf and Crazy Golf

Families can engage in a fun round of mini-golf or crazy golf on the valley’s course, adding to the variety of outdoor activities available for all ages. The creatively designed course makes for an enjoyable experience amid beautiful surroundings.

Upcoming Events: The 50th Birthday Gala

Lappa Valley’s 50th-anniversary gala weekend will take place on June 14-16, 2024. During this event, all of Lappa Valley’s locomotives will be on display, with rare visiting steam engines and miniature traction engines. The event will feature double-headed trains and “The Cornishman” non-stop service, which promises excitement as it races through the East Wheal Rose station. In addition, there will be an exhibition with historical memorabilia from Lappa’s five-decade journey.

Special Experiences: From Train Driver Days to Birthday Parties

Train Driver Experiences

For an extra-special day, Lappa Valley offers Train Driver Experiences, where visitors can step into the engineer’s shoes and operate one of the historic steam engines. This experience is available for adults and children, with supervision from experienced staff.

Birthday Parties and Group Visits

Lappa Valley is also popular for birthday parties, where kids can enjoy a day full of train rides, soft play, and outdoor fun. Group packages for schools and organizations are also available, including tailored activities that blend education with fun, covering topics from railway history to environmental science.

Facilities and Accessibility

Lappa Valley is designed to accommodate families, with accessible pathways, baby-changing facilities, and a café offering a range of meals and refreshments. Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas, making it a pet-friendly destination. Additionally, there is ample parking, and the attraction is accessible by public transport from Newquay, making it convenient for both locals and tourists.

FAQs 

What is Lappa Valley, and where is it located?

Lappa Valley is a family-friendly attraction in Cornwall, UK, combining outdoor adventures with train-themed activities in a unique setting. The park sits in the lush countryside near Newquay, blending natural beauty with historical charm as it occupies a section of the old Newquay to Chacewater railway line, originally built in the 1800s. Known for its nostalgic train rides and extensive play areas, Lappa Valley is popular with families looking for a blend of historical adventure and modern fun.

What can visitors expect to do at Lappa Valley?

Lappa Valley offers a variety of activities for all ages. Guests can enjoy a scenic train journey through the countryside, hop on the boating lake, and explore nature trails and adventure golf. The park also includes the Engine Shed, an indoor play area with a soft play setup ideal for young children, and it recently introduced a frisbee golf course and expanded play zones. There are ample picnic spots and outdoor seating areas for relaxation, making it a well-rounded day out for families.

What types of trains are available for rides?

Lappa Valley features a charming selection of narrow-gauge steam and diesel trains, including heritage models that add to the nostalgic feel of the experience. There are multiple routes within the park, such as the journey from the main entrance to the central play area, where visitors can board the “Newlyn Downs Branch Line” and other special event rides throughout the year.

Are there dining options within Lappa Valley?

Yes, Lappa Valley has several dining facilities. The Whistlestop Café, located within the Engine Shed, offers a comfortable place to refuel with a range of meals, snacks, and drinks. Special dietary options are available, and guests can bring their own picnic to enjoy in designated areas throughout the park.

Conclusion

Lappa Valley is a unique blend of history, nature, and family fun that appeals to all ages. From scenic train rides and interactive play areas to special seasonal events, it offers a well-rounded experience that encourages families to explore and make lasting memories. Its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy this special place, creating a welcoming environment for visitors across generations. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply looking for a charming day out in Cornwall, Lappa Valley is a destination with something for everyone.

To read more, Click Here.