St Merryn Steam and Vintage Rally Returns This Weekend

Steam power, vintage vehicles and a jaw-dropping display you won’t forget

The St Merryn Steam and Vintage Rally returns this weekend, bringing two days of family fun, heritage displays and fundraising to Towan, near Padstow.

Taking place on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd June, the rally promises a packed schedule of events and attractions for all ages. Gates open at 10am daily, and kids go free with a paying adult.

A crowd favourite makes its return

One of the standout features of the weekend is the Dancing Diggers display. This carefully choreographed show features large construction vehicles performing precision moves with surprising grace. Described as a “spectacle not to be missed”, the display combines power and playfulness in a performance that continues to amaze visitors year after year.

A bit of everything vintage

First held in 1980 to raise money for the St Merryn Church roof restoration, the event has grown into a key fixture on Cornwall’s summer calendar. This year, visitors can expect:

• Steam engines and vintage exhibits

• Cornish wrestling (Saturday only)

• Ferret racing

• Bouncy castle

• Trade stands

• Car boot sale

The event continues into the evenings, with a Friday night disco and Harbour Boys performing live on Saturday night.

Supporting the local community

In 2024, proceeds from the rally helped raise funds for several important local causes:

• £1,000 was donated to the Padstow Lifeboat Crew Fund

• £750 went to Cornwall Blood Bikes

• £750 supported the Wadebridge Food Bank

This annual event continues to celebrate the spirit of community and Cornwall’s love of all things vintage, with all profits going to local charities.

Admission is £10, and under 16s get in free with a paying adult. For full details visit www.stmerrynrally.com or contact the organisers at 07932 917948, 07854 048252 or stmerrynrally@googlemail.com.

The rally is held at Towan, PL28 8PJ.