Families in Newquay Urged to Find the Hidden Trail with a Magical Twist This Half Term

Free story walk connects town centre to tranquil Trenance Valley

Families heading to Newquay this May half term are being invited to discover a new free story trail that winds its way from Cliff Road into the peaceful and picturesque Trenance Valley.

The Trenance Trail, created by Newquay Business Improvement District (BID), is now live and offers a new way for visitors and locals alike to explore a quieter side of the town. Funded by Cornwall Council’s Town Delivery Fund and Experience Newquay, the trail aims to connect the high street with the valley and highlight the area’s attractions and independent businesses.

Seven stops, one story

The trail features seven circular pavement stickers, each with a scene from a specially written story. Families can scan a QR code on each sticker to read a chapter online and receive directions to the next point. The trail includes stops near some of Trenance’s best-known spots, including the mini-golf, ride-on train, trampoline park, tennis centre and surrounding gardens.

Newquay-based author, illustrator and artist Maia Walczak was commissioned by Newquay BID to write and illustrate the story. Maia is an award-winning children’s book creator known for her work exploring nature, curiosity and the human experience.

Maia said:

“It was such an honour to be asked to work on this beautiful community story and art installation! I loved the challenge of coming up with a story from scratch that would encompass all the different elements the story trail needed to include. Thank you Newquay BID and Cornwall Council for trusting me with this challenge! I hope the tale of this little Piskie and his Earth dwelling friends enchants children (and adults!) and has them appreciating and connecting to the wonders of their surroundings, both the local Trenance surroundings, and the wider surroundings of this planet we call home.”

A different side to Newquay

Trenance Valley is often missed by visitors sticking to the beaches and main streets, but it’s a favourite with those who know it. With a stream running through it, a striking viaduct overhead and plenty of open space, it’s home to places like Micro DIY, Ideal Bikes and Boards, and a mix of leisure activities for all ages.

Abigail Hubbucks, from Newquay BID, said:

“Trenance is such a beautiful area of Newquay, with its remarkable offerings for those young and old, such as the trampoline park and serene rose garden, as well as businesses which are valuable for our community such as Micro DIY and Ideal Bikes and Boards. Working with Maia to deliver this trail as a free activity for children and families to use to explore this area and connect with reading has been a joy. The Experience Newquay event last November, Trees and Tales, set the scene wonderfully to have a magickal creature within this setting.”

You can find out more about the trail and how to get started at lovenqy.co.uk/explore/trenance-trail.