All aboard the Lappa Valley steam train, stopping at the boating lake, the pirate ship, the crazy golf and plenty of fun for kids of all ages. Welcome to one of Cornwall’s most celebrated attractions for the young and young-at-heart.
The attraction, near Newquay, is famous for its 15-inch minimum gauge railway – the type of railway pioneered by Sir Arthur Percival Heywood in the late 19th century that was all about ease of use across relatively small areas. The Lappa Valley rail runs from the former tramway stop Benny Halt to East Wheal Rose station, which dates back to 1849. Climb aboard the steam locomotives Muffin or Zebedee for a ride like no other.
After the kids enjoy their train ride across the stunning countryside, they arrive in a ‘secret valley of fun and adventure’. There’s crazy golf with nine holes to play. There’s a boating lake with an island to admire. Canoes and pedalo swans are available for families so they can enjoy the tranquil waters. And there’s plenty of play areas for youngsters which include rocker trains, slides, play forts and trampolines. The pirate ship just begs to be climbed by landlubbers and the play jeep, pedal cars and giant tunnel slide also must be visited by the kids.
Lappa Valley just has to be explored – there are outdoor play areas like football zones across the attraction – and it’s all topped off by the Engine shed, which is home to an awesome indoor soft play area, party rooms, a café and large disabled-access toilets. Lappa Valley is also open all year round, so full steam ahead!