Lappa Valley to Celebrate 30 Years of the Newlyn Downs Branch Line This Weekend

Special anniversary event set for 28th and 29th June at the much-loved family attraction

Lappa Valley is preparing to celebrate a major milestone this weekend, with a special locomotive reunion marking 30 years since the launch of its iconic Newlyn Downs Branch Line.

The anniversary event, taking place on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th June, will see the return of “Duke of Cornwall” — a much-loved locomotive that played a key role in the early years of the railway.

A tribute to heritage

The Newlyn Downs Branch Line first opened in 1995, built along the old Newquay to Chacewater Great Western Railway track bed. The 10¼ inch gauge railway was laid using rails bought from the Carlyon Bay Beach Railway, which once entertained thousands of beach-goers.

As part of that purchase, Lappa Valley also acquired the “Duke of Cornwall” locomotive. It served as the sole engine for the branch line from its opening until 2008 and is fondly remembered by many for its time both on the beach and at the park.

Ben Harding, Operations Director at Lappa Valley, said:
“Lots of people remember Duke of Cornwall with a great deal of fondness from her time on the beach, as well as here at Lappa.
“We’re really pleased to be giving her a run-out over the weekend, with a series of demonstration services along the Newlyn Downs line. We’ll also be commemorating the hard work that went into constructing the line on the old track bed over the cold winters.
“Here at Lappa Valley, we love honouring the past and inspiring the next generation of train lovers.”

📷The imposing East Wheal Rose Engine House stands over the construction of the Newlyn Downs Branchline in the early 90s.

Locomotive reunion and new display

Although the Duke of Cornwall is currently undergoing an overhaul, it will make a special appearance during the celebrations. Visitors can expect photo opportunities with the historic locomotive, alongside members of the current fleet including 10¼ inch diesels “Eric” and “The Duke”, both built by Alan Keef.

Journeys along the Newlyn Downs Branch Line will run throughout the weekend, travelling to the Mitchell & Newlyn Halt station, which was upgraded last year and will serve as a focal point for the event.

As part of the celebrations, a new information board will be unveiled to share the story behind the line’s construction and its place in Cornwall’s railway history.

For more information about Lappa Valley and the event, visit lappavalley.co.uk

📷Duke of Cornwall running on the Carlyon Bay Railway in the 80s. Photo credit: Paul Obrey