50 Years of Fun: Lappa Valley’s Biggest Gala Weekend Ever!

Cornwall’s Beloved Attraction Marks Half a Century

Lappa Valley, one of Cornwall’s most cherished attractions, is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of its 50th anniversary with an extraordinary gala weekend. Set for the 14th, 15th, and 16th of June, the event promises to be the largest and most memorable in Lappa Valley’s history.

A Historic Journey

Opened by Eric Booth in June 1974, Lappa Valley quickly became a family favourite. The attraction was originally built around a 15-inch gauge railway set along a section of the closed GWR Newquay to Chacewater Branchline, nestled in the old mine workings of East Wheal Rose Mine. Today, under the ownership of Keith and Sara Southwell since 2014, the award-winning site spans 35 acres and features three railways and thirteen steam, diesel, petrol, and battery locomotives, along with numerous indoor and outdoor activities.

Ben Harding, Lappa Valley’s Operations Manager, expressed excitement about the upcoming festivities: “As one of Cornwall’s oldest and most loved tourist attractions, we’re really looking forward to celebrating 50 years of helping families create memories.”

Gala Weekend Highlights

The special anniversary weekend will feature a host of unique attractions:

• Miniature Traction Engines: Visitors can see miniature traction engines and steam locomotives operating on the 7 ¼ inch gauge Lakeside Railway.
• Historic Locomotives: The gala will showcase Lappa Valley’s first engine, “Zebedee”, making its public debut in steam after a three-year rebuild.
• Special Train Services: Attendees can enjoy double-headed trains, parallel running trains racing on the double section track, and the non-stop “Cornishman” service, which passes straight through East Wheal Rose station.

“It’s very rare to see all our available locomotives running at the same time,” Ben added. “This is going to be a really special occasion.”

Celebrating the Legacy

Visitors will also have the chance to explore an exhibition featuring artefacts from Lappa Valley’s rich history and purchase a newly released guidebook detailing the railway’s past and present. Standard admission prices apply, with discounted weekend return tickets available for those wishing to enjoy the festivities over multiple days.

Keith Southwell shared his enthusiasm for the celebration: “We have regular customers who have been visiting us over generations. Parents who came here as children are now bringing their little ones, and we love playing a part in helping families make memories together.”

Significant investments have been made in recent years, including new facilities and activities like an indoor soft play area and a new diesel locomotive and carriages, ensuring the attraction continues to delight visitors while retaining its original charm.

Join the Celebration

The Lappa Valley gala weekend promises to be an event not to be missed. Tickets will be available daily from the ticket office, with special discounted weekend return rates. For more information, visit Lappa Valley’s website.

Keith concluded, “We really look forward to celebrating with you on the 14th – 16th June.”