Don’t Miss the Final Year of Cornwall’s Magical Tunnel of Lights

A beloved Christmas tradition in Cornwall is set for its grand finale this December, as Charlestown’s Shipwreck Treasure Museum gears up to host the last ever Tunnel of Lights. Running since 2019, the festive attraction has drawn visitors from across Cornwall to experience its stunning light displays and immersive holiday themes.

A Festive Tradition Comes to an End

The Tunnel of Lights has been a favourite for families, with its dazzling array of lights and creative seasonal themes. Each year, the museum and its historic underground tunnels are transformed into a festive wonderland, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

For 2024, the event will be inspired by Wham’s classic song “Last Christmas.” Lynné Raubenheimer from the Shipwreck Treasure Museum shared, “It’s fitting that this year’s theme is ‘Last Christmas,’ as it will be our sixth and sadly final instalment of this amazing event. However, we’re going out in style and planning our biggest and best Tunnel of Lights yet.”

This year’s edition will blend popular scenes from previous years with new festive displays, ensuring visitors get to relive some of their favourite moments while discovering new surprises along the way.

Photo: Lights 3 – Credit: Morgan Cartlidge

Awards and Dates

The Tunnel of Lights has been recognised as a finalist in the Tourism Event / Festival of the Year category at the Cornwall Tourism Awards, following on from the museum’s 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award. It’s an event not to be missed as it might be the last time visitors get to enjoy this magical experience.

The Tunnel of Lights will run from 6th to 31st December 2024, with tickets now available for purchase online. Discounted early bird tickets are also available for a limited time. To secure your spot, visit the Shipwreck Treasure Museum website.

Photo: Tunnel of Lights 4 – Credit: Morgan Cartlidge

Future of the Museum

The museum’s future remains uncertain as it was put up for sale in August. If new ownership is secured, future festive events may still take place. However, Lay’s Auctioneers will auction the museum’s 8,000 artefacts from the 6th to 8th November at their Penzance sale room.

📷Photographs by Emily Whitfield-Wicks Snow Globe and Lights Tunnel of Lights. Shipwreck Museum, Chalrestown. Visitor Engagement Manager Lynné Raubenheimer.

Photo Credit: Emily Whitfield-Wicks

📷Photographs by Emily Whitfield-Wicks Snow Globe and Lights Tunnel of Lights. Shipwreck Museum, Chalrestown. Visitor Engagement Manager Lynné Raubenheimer.

Photo Credit: Emily Whitfield-Wicks