Magical Memories: Charlestown’s Tunnel of Lights Brings Festive Joy to Families

Photo: Zef and his family enjoy the snowfall at the Tunnel of Lights, Charlestown –  Photo Credit: Steven Michell

Families from across Cornwall experiencing challenging times have created unforgettable festive memories at the Tunnel of Lights in Charlestown. This year marks the final opportunity to visit the Christmas experience, as the Shipwreck Treasure Museum is set to close permanently.

A Festive Farewell for a Good Cause

For the fourth consecutive year, the organisers of the Tunnel of Lights opened their doors free of charge to families supported by Children’s Hospice South West and Cornwall’s child bereavement charity, Penhaligon’s Friends. The event offered these families a chance to share special moments together during what can be a particularly tough time of year.

Attendees explored Christmas Mountain, encountering tiny felt mice in their enchanting world of baubles, posting letters to Santa, making wishes, and even drawing on the walls. The journey also featured the dazzling festive light tunnels, filled with tens of thousands of twinkling lights.

Zef, who is currently receiving care as an inpatient at Children’s Hospice South West’s Little Harbour, took a break with his family to enjoy the festivities. His favourite moment was the snow falling outside the venue, a magical addition to the experience.

Photo: Zef and his family enjoy the snowfall at the Tunnel of Lights, Charlestown – Photo Credit: Steven Michell

Creating Precious Memories

One of the families supported by Penhaligon’s Friends who attended the event said:

“You’ve made the start to our Christmas very magical and festive. We’ve made some really lovely family memories this year, so thank you.”

Lynné Raubenheimer, event manager at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum, highlighted the joy the event brings:

“We’re always thrilled to welcome families being supported by these brilliant local charities to enjoy the Tunnel of Lights. Seeing them having fun, smiling and laughing together as they enjoy the event while navigating tricky times is truly special. The Tunnel of Lights is a magical, sensory place that offers a little escape from everyday life and to make some positive memories.”

Julie Parker, CEO of Penhaligon’s Friends, echoed the sentiment, expressing gratitude for the opportunity:

“It is so important for our families to have things to look forward to and making memories for the future is a part of that. Events that the whole family can be a part of feel very special, especially at Christmas, as it can be a particularly difficult, poignant time of the year for many who have suffered a bereavement.

“We are grateful to the Shipwreck Treasure Museum for enabling this opportunity and allowing some of the more than 1,000 bereaved families we support each year from across Cornwall to enjoy the Tunnel of Lights again this year.”

Last Chance to Visit

The Tunnel of Lights will run daily until New Year’s Eve, 31st December, excluding Christmas and Boxing Day. Tickets and additional information can be found online at shipwreckcharlestown.co.uk.

This year’s event is a poignant reminder of the joy and togetherness the festive season can bring, even during life’s most challenging times.

Photo: A family receiving support from Children’s Hospice South West has some fun visiting the Tunnel of Lights, Charlestown – Photo Credit: Steven Michell

Photo: A family receiving support Penhaligon’s Friends enjoying the Tunnel of Lights and the event’s Giant Snow Globe – Photo Credit: Steven Michell

Photo: A family receiving support Penhaligon’s Friends enjoying the Tunnel of Lights and the event’s Giant Snow Globe – Photo Credit: Steven Michell