Tag: Attractions
10 Facts About The Eden Project
July 23rd, 2021
If you’re embarking on a family-friendly holiday in Cornwall, you likely already have the Eden Project in your sights.
With its bubble-like biomes and outstanding range of plants from around the globe, the Eden Project is a fantastic feat of biological engineering and is one of Cornwall’s premier attractions – a true must-visit!
You might recognise the iconic structure, but what else do you know about this attraction?
What is the Eden Project?
Built into an old china clay pit in south Cornwall, the Eden Project consists of a selection of biomes. These giant greenhouse-like structures are made from inflatable plastic cells that are supported by steel frames.
The unique structures allow for the creation of artificial climates, where a myriad of native plants from tropical and desert environments can thrive.
The two main biomes emulate rainforest and Mediterranean climates respectively and house a vast selection of stunning plants.
The site also includes expansive outdoor gardens and various art installations and exhibitions.
1. The Eden Project Opened in 2001
Funded by the Millennium Commission and intended as a way of re-energising the Southwest, the Eden Project opened in March of 2001.
With no building of this scale in the world, at the time a global audience referred to it as the eighth wonder of the world! It was hugely popular from the start, attracting over 1 million visitors in its first four months.
2. The Site Has Been Used as a Filming Location
After functioning as a working clay pit for over 160 years, the original site of the Eden Project was also used as a filming location for the 1981 BBC series The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.
In 2002, after the Eden Project’s construction, it once again became a filming location for the James Bond film Die Another Day.
3. The Eden Project Cost over £100 million
Overall, the Eden Project cost £141 million to complete.
The build was funded through a series of government grants and loans from institutions like the Millennium Commission – with funding coming from the National Lottery – and European regeneration funds.
Since it was fully funded in 2000, the site has been a source of enormous economic revitalisation for Cornwall and the Southwest as a whole – it is believed to have contributed well over £1 billion to the local economy since its launch.
4. The Biomes are Made of A Special Plastic
The hexagonal shape of the biome’s cells was based on soap bubbles and were used for their ability to adapt to the uneven shape of the clay pit that they were built in.
Each cell is made up of three layers of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE) that is inflated to create a pillow. Similar to clingfilm, ETFE is lighter than glass but also strong enough to withstand the weight of a car. It also lets in UV light for the plants inside.
If the plastic needs to be cleaned, this is performed by abseilers who scale the structure.
5. The Eden Project is Home to the World’s Largest Indoor Rainforest
Eden’s tropical biome houses an incredible selection of plants that make up the largest indoor rainforest in the world!
With over 1,000 varieties of plants, there’s plenty to see and experience, especially when venturing up to the canopy walkway that gives you stunning views from great heights. Temperatures in the biome reach between 18 and 35°C to create a humid environment that replicates climates of Southeast Asia, West Africa and South America.
6. The Eden Project is A Charitable Organisation
The Eden Project is a charitable organisation, although the amount of money it receives from government organisations has sharply decreased. Seen now as more of a social enterprise, the Eden Project is fully capable of funding its operations through gate receipts and other revenue streams.
Despite this, the Eden Project still values its charitable ethos, placing this at the centre of much of their work. They run many educational programmes at the site, while also using their reputation to push the conversation about our environment.
7. The Eden Project Hosts Musical Performances
Thanks to its unique venue, the Eden Project is also a popular place to host musical performances, with world-renowned musicians performing in these ‘Eden Sessions’.
Over the years, the Eden Project has hosted acts like Snow Patrol, Amy Winehouse, Elton John, Bastille, Kaiser Chiefs and much more.
2021 headliners are set to be My Chemical Romance, The Script, Lionel Richie and Diana Ross.
8. The Eden Project Hosts The World Pasty Championships
Since 2012, the World Pasty Championships have been held at the Eden Project. This competition is, of course, centred around finding the best Cornish pasty, although there are rounds for other non-traditional bakes too.
The event sees amateurs, professional bakers, and companies compete to be crowned the pasty champion. Competitors come from all over the country and from further afield to get the chance to show off their baked goods.
9. The Eden Project is Home to England’s Longest and Fastest Zip Wire
Although the vast array of plants and spectacular gardens are the main draw of the Eden Project, a peaceful stroll in the greenery is not all the site has to offer.
The 660m long zip wire that takes you to speeds of 60 mph is sure to provide a thrill – not to mention the other adrenaline activities, including a giant swing, leap of faith and aerial obstacle course.
10. The Eden Project is Going Global
Eden Project International is an organisation chaired by many of the people behind the Eden Project in Cornwall. It was created with the mission of supporting other potential projects across the world in developing their own Eden sites based on the local environments.
There are both national and international projects proposed, with a site in Dundee most recently announced. Based in a former gasworks, this exciting project is set to bring in millions to the regional economy.
There are numerous other planned projects across the world, including in China, Australia and the U.S.A.
The Eden Project is a fantastic location to visit any time of the year and is just one of the many reasons to take a trip to Cornwall. Here at The Valley, our luxury holiday park in Cornwall makes a great base for your Cornish adventures – discover more about our 5-star accommodations today.
A Dog-Friendly Guide to Falmouth
July 05th, 2021
For many of us, being able to bring our four-legged friends on holiday is a must – especially when said holiday involves a trip or two to the beach! Falmouth is a beautiful coastal town with plenty to see and do, even when accompanied by your dog.
Here at The Valley, we heartily welcome dogs to our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Cornwall, but we know that not everywhere can say the same.
Whether it’s finding a spot for lunch or organising a day full of activities, locating places that accept dogs can sometimes be tricky. Our guide covers some great sites in Falmouth, so you and the whole family, including your pup, can make the most of your Cornwall holiday.
Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Falmouth
Falmouth is a stunning seaside town, which means there are plenty of local beaches for you to explore.
Unfortunately, all Falmouth beaches have a seasonal dog ban, meaning the main beaches of Gyllyngvase, Swanpool and Maenporth are off-limits during certain months of the year. However, if you’re happy to venture a little further out of town, you’ll find some fantastic spots that’ll welcome your dog.
Most dogs love to run wild at the beach and have a splash around in the water, so be sure to visit some of these beaches that allow dogs all year round.
Carne Beach
Carne Beach is a picturesque, sandy beach – perfect for a day out with the family. The beach is south facing and sheltered by Nare Head, making it a beautifully peaceful spot to set up for the day.
At lower tides, you can find some fascinating rock pools; perusing the sea life that collects here makes a great activity for the kids. As the beach permits dogs all year round, your pooch will have endless fun on these shores too.
Carne Beach is a little off the beaten track, meaning it’s usually free of the same crowds that even more popular beaches garner.
Polgwidden Cove
Polgwidden beach is somewhat hidden and unknown as the entrance can only be found through Trebah Gardens. It is a lovely sandy beach with a shingle cove where dogs are welcome all year round!
Based on the Helford River, the beach boasts splendid views and is an excellent location for a stroll along the coast or even a bit of leisurely boating.
The cove also has a rich and interesting history as it was used by the military in WW2 to launch the attack on Omaha beach in Normandy!
Portholland Beach
Portholland is comprised of two beaches, both of which offer vast stretches of golden sand.
At low tide, the east and west beaches join and create a brilliant opportunity for a long walk by the sea. Both beaches are dog-friendly all year round, so your furry friend can explore with you to their heart’s content.
There are also plenty of opportunities to grab a bite from the local seaside cafe to recharge after your adventures on the beach!
More Dog-Friendly Beaches in Cornwall
If you don’t mind travelling a little further from Falmouth, other lovely beaches that allow dogs all year round include:
- Hemmick Beach
- Porthluney Beach
- Vault Beach
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Falmouth
It can certainly be challenging to find the perfect place to eat, especially with your dog in tow! Thankfully, numerous places in Falmouth welcome our four-legged friends, so you won’t be short of places to visit!
Stable Pizza
As you might have guessed from its name, this place is all about pizza!
Stable Pizza offers fresh sourdough bases with homemade tomato sauce and an array of delicious toppings; absolute heaven after a long day at the beach. The restaurant also has a variety of fifty different ciders; you’ll undoubtedly be spoilt for choice.
This location is based on two floors – dogs are welcome on the ground floor.
Harbour View
This restaurant is located on the harbour front and boasts some fantastic views. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner while you watch the scenic world go by.
There is seating both indoors and on the deck – if you’re lucky enough to have a bit of sunshine, why not enjoy some alfresco dining right by the water?
Even if the day is slightly chillier or you want to enjoy outdoor dining at night when the cooler temperatures settle in, Harbour View offers complimentary blankets to keep you warm while you enjoy the views.
The Boathouse
Situated right by the water, The Boathouse is in the prime spot to enjoy some more incredible views of Falmouth Harbour.
The pub has been around for over 300 years, and it is a local staple. The menu is chock full of delicious meals, including burgers, fresh fish dishes and their famous Sunday roasts.
You’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating areas that allow your dog to join you.
Five Degrees West
Another Falmouth favourite, this bar, grill and beer garden is the perfect place for a spot of lunch and a pint. The pub is dog-friendly with a spacious layout and both outdoor and indoor seating.
For a livelier evening, they also put on live music events to accompany the delicious food and drinks.
Dog-Friendly Attractions Near Falmouth
Falmouth is home to a variety of places to visit – for more general info, check out our ultimate Falmouth guide. Unfortunately, not all of them allow dogs. However, don’t worry just yet – there are still plenty of great spots that will welcome your pup on a day out!
Trebah Gardens
Roughly a 15-minute drive from Falmouth, Trebah Gardens is a sub-tropical paradise and is considered one of Cornwall’s gems.
The gardens feature an array of stunning flowers, giant gunnera, numerous streams and tranquil ponds. It is a splendid location for lovers of the outdoors and those who like to embrace a walk surrounded by natural beauty. Dogs are welcome to join you so long as they are on a lead.
Once you have taken a stroll through the glorious grounds, stop off at the café and grab a bite to eat. The gift shop will also offer locally-produced food, crafts and everything garden related!
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle is a great day out for all the family and is definitely one to visit for lovers of history and stunning views.
The castle is one of Henry VIII’s most beautiful coastal fortresses, and its picturesque location is hard not to admire! Once you have taken a stroll around the incredible castle and have learned all about its fascinating history, take a trip to the tea room to enjoy a classic Cornish cream tea.
Dogs are welcome at Pendennis Castle all year round, as long as they are kept on a lead.
If you’re interested in a dog-friendly holiday to Cornwall, check out our dog-friendly cottages in our luxury holiday park in Cornwall and start planning your perfect stay today!
If a trip to Falmouth hasn’t made your holiday itinerary, take a look at our guide below to discover other great locations that are just as welcoming of your dog.
There are many places to visit in Falmouth, but unfortunately, not all of them allow dogs. However, not to worry, because we have found some great spots that welcome the pups to join the day out!
7 Outdoor Attractions You Can Visit in Cornwall
June 29th, 2020
Packed with open landscapes and tranquil beaches to explore, Cornwall is the ideal spot for enjoying fresh air and the great outdoors. In fact, many of our greatest attractions can be found outside too, making use of the incredible scenery.
With government guidelines now permitting gardens, nature reserves and parkland to reopen, with many more attractions set to reopen in July, there are a number of outdoor spaces and attractions that you can now visit.
Trelissick
The Trelissick estate provides 375-acres of garden and countryside, so staying a safe distance from others will be a breeze here! The National Trust estate has reopened, and you can visit provided you book in advance. You must book by 3pm the day before your visit.
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle is set to open on the 4th of July. There are limits in place for the number of visitors that can be in the castle at any one time, so it is essential that you book a timed slot ticket in advance. You will not be able to visit without a pre-booked slot.
To improve safety, there have been some updates made to the attraction. Limited groups will be guided through the Castle Keep, following a one-way system, while the grounds remain open to explore. While the Field Train Shed and Battery Observation Post remain open as usual, the Barrack Block Exhibition has to stay closed.
The shop and soft play area will also stay shut; however, the toilets will be open, and the café will be operating a takeaway service for refreshments.
Glendurgan Garden
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to walk, then luckily, Glendurgan Garden has reopened. Managed by the National Trust, Glendurgan features an exotic valley garden that leads down to a secluded river beach on the Helford River.
If you would like to visit, then booking is essential, and you will be turned away if you arrive without pre-booking. While the gardens are accessible, unfortunately, the maze and the gates to Durgan will remain closed. However, you will still be able to get takeaway refreshments from the tea house.
Image Credit: Visit Cornwall
Trebah
Trebah is a tropical paradise in Cornwall, with the stunning gardens leading down to a secluded river beach.
Trebah gardens and the beach have reopened Saturday – Wednesday (closed Thursday and Friday). Pre-booking a trip is essential, and should be done through their website.
The garden has been given a one-way route to ensure safe distancing can be achieved. While the café and shop have to remain closed, the toilets in the visitor centre are open and regularly cleaned. There will also be plant sales available if you are inspired to do a bit of gardening after your visit.
Tremenheere Sculpture Garden
The Tremenheere Sculpture Garden is in an idyllic spot, set within a sub-tropical garden overlooking St. Michael’s Mount.
Tremenheere has partially reopened, with visitors welcome every Wednesday – Sunday. At present, the indoor gallery remains closed, but the gardens are open for you to enjoy, along with the Tremenheere Nursery, toilets and Tremenheere Kitchen where you can find takeaway options.
You can buy tickets on the day at the garden, but only card payments can be accepted at present.
Eden Project
The Eden Project is one of the most popular attractions in Cornwall, and many cannot wait to return and explore the incredible grounds.
At the Eden Project, all outdoor gardens are open to visitors, with the Rainforest Biome and Mediterranean Biome set to reopen on the 4th July. The biomes and the Core education centre all follow a one-way system to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.
All visits to the Eden Project must be pre-booked online, with a designated time slot allocated. There are toilets open across the site, and there are a few options for takeaway food available.
If you are an NHS or care worker, then the Eden Project is also welcoming you and one guest into the attraction free of charge as a way of saying thanks for all your hard work at this time! These visits must also be pre-booked, though.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
With 200-acres of garden and grounds to explore, The Lost Gardens of Heligan are an ideal place to visit on your holiday in Cornwall. The gardens are currently open Wednesday – Sunday.
Pre-booked tickets are essential, as the timed slots allow for visitor entry to be staggered throughout the day and improve social distancing. The shop and plant centre are open, while the Steward’s House Tearoom and The Horsebox are offering takeaway refreshments and ice cream.
With beaches, moorland and woodland to explore, there is plenty more for you to do when visiting Cornwall. If you are looking for something a little more active, then check out our guide to cycle trails in Cornwall.
If you are planning a Cornish getaway, then our luxury cottages in Cornwall could be just the thing for you! Set in 13 acres of garden and woodland, our self-catering cottages offer the perfect retreat to isolate yourself in the stunning Cornish countryside!
4 Activities for All the Family in Cornwall
May 11th, 2020
Cornwall is the perfect holiday destination in the UK; with numerous seaside towns, plenty of delicious restaurants and so many activities, you will never be short of somewhere to visit or something to do!
Whether you are looking for adventure, heritage or simply a fun-filled day out, Cornwall has plenty to offer. We share some of our top activities for all the family so that you can all enjoy your time in the Cornish countryside.
Flambards Theme Park
Come rain or shine, Flambards Theme Park is a brilliant day out for the whole family. From soft play areas for the little ones to sky-high adventure rides for the thrill-seekers and a life-size Victorian Village for the aspiring historians!
Flambards Theme Park features award-winning indoor attractions, so if you find yourself visiting on a day that is a little wet, not to fear because there is still lots to see and do. Additionally, when purchasing a full-price ticket, you receive a free return for a further six consecutive days from the date of the first admission. So, you could always visit again to experience the whole park!
Enys Gardens
Take the day to explore the 30 acres of lush gardens and discover some beautiful and picturesque scenery. Each season offers a different experience as different flowers come into bloom. No matter what time of year you visit, you can be sure to have a wonderful time spent with loved ones unwinding in the countryside.
From ponds and flower gardens to woodlands, there is lots to discover. The gardens are huge, so there is plenty for the little explorers to see! There is also Enys House to visit; step back in time and see the old Georgian house that was built in the 1830s!
After building up an appetite from walking around the stunning gardens, you can stop at the Garden Café for a bite to eat and light refreshment. With sandwiches, salads and homemade soup, there is lots to choose from for your lunch. There is also an array of freshly baked cakes and scones for a little treat. After all, you are in Cornwall, so it’s only right to have a cream tea!
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
While visiting the Cornish seaside, why not learn more about the big blue sea? The National Maritime Museum features 15 galleries that span over five floors! Each of the galleries shares insight and information on the sea’s history and culture. Here are just some of the things you can explore at the National Maritime Museum:
- A variety of boats from around the world
- RNLI Rescue Zone
- Boat Building Workshop
- Cornwall and the Sea
- Tidal Zone (you can look underwater at the harbour through two large windows)
- The Treasure Island Play Zone
- The Lookout Tower (look at breathtaking views over the harbour, docks and estuary)
- The Boat Pool (you can sail small model boats)
Newquay Zoo
One of the most well-known attractions in Cornwall is Newquay Zoo. With over 130 species, there are plenty of animals to meet and learn all about. From monkeys and reptiles to zebras and big cats, you can get up close to some of the world’s most fascinating animals.
You could spend the whole day at Newquay Zoo exploring the 13 acres of the park. There are two onsite cafes for you to grab a bite to eat, or you can pack your own picnic and settle down in one of the eating areas.
If you want to add something extra special to your trip, you can pay extra to meet the animals up close and personal. Animal experiences are something that you will remember for a lifetime. The following animal experiences are available at Newquay Zoo:
- Lion Feeding: Help the keepers feed the lions and learn all about these incredible cats.
- Red Panda Experience: Meet the loveable pair of red pandas, Germaine and Zou, feed them and learn all about them from the panda keepers.
- Penguin Encounter: For those who love penguins, this could be an incredible experience. Get up close with the animals, feed them some fish and learn from the keeper all about the fascinating species.
- Junior Zookeeper Experience: For those aged between 8 and 14 years old, this is the perfect experience! You can get first-hand experience of what it’s like to work with the fantastic animals at Newquay Zoo.
- Zookeeper Experience: Are you an animal lover, or maybe you wonder what it would be like to be a zookeeper? The zookeeper experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close with so many different animals.
If you would like to visit any of these attractions, why not stay with us at The Valley? We offer luxury family holidays in Cornwall, perfect for a getaway with loved ones!
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6 Unusual Things to Do in Cornwall
September 16th, 2019
Cornwall is a fantastic part of the country, with so many picturesque villages, exciting attractions and breath-taking beaches. There are many things in Cornwall that are relatively mainstream and attract many tourists, and while these are awesome, we would also recommend visiting some of these usual activities to really make the most of your holiday!
Lost Gardens of Heligan
A truly encaptivating experience, the Lost Gardens of Heligan is not your usual attraction. With the garden being 400 years old, there are numerous fascinating features to explore, perhaps the most famous being the giant’s head in the ground made from greenery. With over 200 acres to discover, this place is full of extraordinary sculptures, fascinating wildlife and spectacular gardens. Another mesmerising place to explore at the Lost Gardens of Heligan is the jungle. Here you will find bamboo tunnels to walk through and towering banana trees above you.
After you have taken a trip around the gardens, visit the Heligan Kitchen & Bakery and enjoy a cup of coffee with some tasty local produce! Why not take the chance to try the local delicacy and have a Cornish cream tea?
CC by Alison Day (Restormel Castle)
Restormel Castle
Initially built in the 11th-century, Restormel is an extraordinary medieval castle. These fascinating ruins were once a luxury residence for the Earl of Cornwall, and it was one of the four chief Norman castles of Cornwall. Something that makes Restormel unique from other historic castles is its formation and design. The chambers are all arranged against the outer circular walls; this includes the kitchens, great hall and guest rooms. Since 1925, Restormel has been cared for by the English Heritage, while being officially owned by the Duchy of Cornwall. Throughout the whole of the United Kingdom, this castle is the best remaining example of a circular castle, making it quite the sight to see! Not only is the castle an interesting attraction in itself, but the location is also perfect for a picnic or a country walk. The castle boasts an incredible 360-degree view of lush countryside, and it is surrounded by woodlands that are a haven for birds and wildlife.
Adrenalin Quarry
Now, this isn’t one for the faint-hearted. Adrenalin Quarry in Liskeard is an action-packed adventure park; somewhere to get your palms sweating and heart racing! From karting and axe throwing to coasteering and an aquapark, this place has an abundance of fun activities for both adults and children to enjoy. The aquapark is brand new to Adrenalin Quarry, with slides, trampolines, monkey bars and other massive inflatables.
There are two top attractions at Adrenalin Quarry, the Giant Swing and the Blob. The Giant Swing is considered the scariest ride they have ever built, and it is not for those who are easily afraid. You are pulled up 160ft above the lake, and then you are released, experiencing complete weightlessness as the swing drops you and leaves you to glide over the water. The Blob, on the other hand, is slightly more fun rather than scary. It is a humongous inflatable tube that floats on the water. The attraction works by one person sitting on one end, and then someone else climbs the ladder at the other end and leaps off to jump onto the inflatable. This results in the person sitting down to catapult into the air before splashing into the water. An excellent opportunity to see a family member or friend fly through the sky!
The Eden Project
Considered the world’s largest greenhouse, the Eden Project is a fascinating attraction. The Eden Project isn’t exactly unknown in Cornwall and is, in fact, a rather popular attraction, but that doesn’t take away from that fact that it isn’t your ordinary day out. Consisting of multiple gigantic biomes, the aim of the Eden Project is to promote environmental sustainability. They spent a whopping £141 million to collect tropical plants from all over the world to showcase them in these natural habitats. Among these beautiful climates are an array of other activities, such as England’s longest zip wire, a soft play area for the little ones, a great outdoor play centre and a delicious café.
Bodmin Jail
Bodmin Jail is undoubtedly a captivating place to discover and understand exactly what life was like for a prisoner many years ago. The jail was built in 1779, and while holding many criminals, it was also the safe haven for the state papers and the Domesday book during the First World War. Nowadays, the jail is a historical attraction and no longer functions as a working prison. Bodmin Jail visitors can explore the cold and dark cells and imagine what the life of a captured criminal was like. The execution shed is open to visitors too, which features the Victorian hanging pit; a 4.5-metre drop and it is the only one of its kind in the UK. Furthermore, there is an exhibition which features a tour across six floors of the jail.
Museum of Witchcraft and Magic
If you’ve got an interest in anything dark and spooky or anthropology, this is the place for you! The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is situated in the picturesque town of Boscastle, and it is a place for you to explore the magical practice in Britain. As you walk around this museum, you’ll soon realise the fascinating nature of witchcraft and magic. It has been around since 1961 and is one of the world’s largest collections of items relating to witchcraft and magic, with over 3,000 objects to discover!
Should you choose to visit Cornwall, we highly recommend you take a trip to some of these fantastic attractions. If you would like to book a holiday to the South, why not add a touch of luxury to your trip and stay in a hot tub cottage in Cornwall? No matter the weather, a hot tub is an excellent addition to any holiday; adding that extra element of relaxation and escape! Here at The Valley, we offer self-catering holiday cottages that are both child-friendly and dog-friendly, so that the whole family can enjoy a getaway to Cornwall. Are you looking for some more holiday inspiration? Take a look at our previous blog that looks at the best places for a family day out in Cornwall!
Family-Friendly Easter Activities In Cornwall
March 16th, 2018
With all of the cold weather we’ve been having recently, it may be surprising to realise that Easter is actually only a few weeks away! We take a look at some of the family-friendly activities that will be taking place throughout Cornwall over the Easter holiday.
Easter at Eden, 24 March – 15 April
Starting on the 24th March, the Eden Project will be hosting a three-week Easter holiday eggstravaganza, with a range of egg-citing activities perfect for all of the family! It wouldn’t be Easter without the holiday essential of an egg hunt, so go on the lookout for the special golden eggs hidden in Eden. Next head to the amazing spring maze and see if you and your family can find their way out! Seek out the signs of spring on the discovery trail before heading to the giant inflatable challenge. Bounce your way through the plant themed inflatable obstacle course and head down some giant inflatable slides for a thrilling day out at the Eden Project.
Explosive Easter at Flambards Theme Park, 24 March – 15 April
The theme park will be open all throughout the holidays for visitors to enjoy the rides, attractions and entertainment. To celebrate the holiday, an ‘Explosive Easter’ event will be taking place between March 31st and April 8th, which will see a number of explosively fun experiments taking place inside the laboratory. Young scientists can even have a go at making their own gunge! These sciencey shows take place each day at 1pm and 3pm and last around half an hour. On Easter Sunday, Ferdi the Flambards fox mascot will also be leading the way on the Big Easter Egg Quiz Trail, helping you to follow clues to find a yummy chocolate egg.
Pirate School at National Maritime Museum, 30 March – 15 April
Among the 5 floors of seaside history, culture and boat galleries is ‘Pirate School’, specially started for all children visiting during the Easter break. Learn how to be a Pirate, and some of the fascinating stories of pirates in the past, with the interactive shows put on by Rattlebox Theatre. Then create your own pirate cutlass, hook, parrot and treasure chest at the craft tables before embarking on the treasure map trail around the museum. For more pirate fun, head to the Treasure Island play zone dressed in your new pirate gear!
Leaping Lamb Trail at Trebah, 10 and 12 April
At Easter, Spring is officially underway, with all of the beautiful flowers in full bloom, so where better to go than a gorgeous garden!? Trebah garden will be running some exciting activities for all of the visiting children this year, with a drop in ‘Wooly Workshop’ taking place on the 10th and 12th of April. For £3, all materials needed will be provided for you to make some spring lamb themed crafts. Every day over the Easter holidays, you’ll also be able to take part in the ‘Leaping Lamb’ Trail, on the hunt for fun facts and Easter treats!
Adventure Quest at Tintagel Castle, 30 March – 2 April
Arthurian legends link the magical Tintagel to King Arthur, so it’s easy to see why there are so many adventures to be had at the Castle. Over Easter, brave adventurers are being called upon to help search for dragon eggs. If you accept the quest, you’ll be off following clues, meeting some exciting characters and maybe even finding a chocolatey reward!
Survival and Bushcraft Day at Cornwall’s Regimental Museum, 12 April
While there are many activities taking place throughout the whole of Easter, there is something very exciting taking place on the 12th April, between 11am and 3pm, with a survival and bushcraft day teaching you some essential skills. You’ll have the chance to take part in some team building activities, as well as a camouflage face painting session. In addition, there are a number of other fun family activities being held at the Cornwall Regimental Museum this Easter, between the 24th March and the 15th April, including military dressing up, craft activities, a family trail and quiz, and the chance to play a bugle and drum!
Easter Crafts at Truro Cathedral, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 April
Truro Cathedral is a wonderful place to visit in its own right, but if you’re looking for something to entertain the kids as you take in the stunning sites of the area then these activity days are perfect! There are five different drop-in sessions on various days of the holiday, which are free to take part in, although a donation is appreciated. On Tuesday 3rd you’ll have the chance to make your own Easter bonnet, followed by an Easter garland on the 4th. The next week you can make a chick mobile on the 9th, some cute egg people on the 10th, and fun rabbit finger puppets on the 11th. Fun Easter trails will also be on offer every day!
If you are looking to spend the Easter holidays in Cornwall, then take a look at our range of child-friendly cottages! Cornwall is the perfect place for a fun family getaway, so let us know which of these Easter activities you’re most looking forward too.
The Fal River Festival Is In Full Swing
May 30th, 2017
The annual Fal River Festival is well under way, located in many locations around the infamous Fal River, including Falmouth, Truro and The Roseland. Hosting 150 events over the week, from music gig racing, there is plenty for you to enjoy while you are on your luxury Falmouth holidays. The festivities started on the 26th May, but don’t worry if you missed out on these, as the event is going on until the 4th June! If you’re looking for some family-friendly fun on your holiday, then make sure you attend one of the many events lined up over the next couple of days. With a host of events from the world of music, food, theatre, art, storytelling, adventure and sports, there is something for everyone at the biggest cultural event in the area.
Lose yourself in The Lost Gardens of Heligan
April 12th, 2017
A majestic garden adventure in the heart of Cornwall awaits you on your retreat. Spend the day marvelling the plant life, spotting the animals and encountering the magical sculptures. Discover more about the critically-acclaimed gardens, located in Pentewan, close to St Austell, in this feature and why you should don your walking boots and explore this must-see place:
Cornish museum shortlisted for prestigious award
August 06th, 2015
An award-winning museum in Cornwall was been shortlisted as a contender for the prestigious UK Heritage Attraction of the Year award.
The National Maritime Museum Cornwall is located in Falmouth, and only a short distance from our luxury cottages in Cornwall. The Museum was named as a contender for the award at the British Travel Awards (BTAs), and will face some stiff competition from other attractions across Britain (more…)
English landscape is worth £20bn-per-year to our economy a new report shows
June 24th, 2015
A fresh report has publicised that England’s best landscapes are worth more than £20 billion a year to the UK’s economy.
