Lappa Valley Steam Railway

Lappa Valley Steam Railway is a narrow fifteen inch gauge railway which opened in 1849 to carry minerals between Newquay and East Wheal Rose. Later, it became part of the GWR Newquay to Chacewater branch line. The line closed in 1963 but, the following year, part of the line was re-opened as a narrow gauge railway. Two steam locomotives, “Muffin” and “Zebedee”, run from Benny Halt to East Wheal Rose, where there is a leisure complex with a children’s playground, and then further on to Newlyn Down’s Halt

The mile-long journey from Benny Halt runs through a beautiful Cornish valley to a small leisure park at East Wheal Rose. Two other miniature railways run from here: the 10¼ inch gauge climbs around half a mile further up the valley, and the 7¼ inch gauge follows travels a circuit of about 350 yards. There are canoes and pedaloes on the lovely boating lake in the leisure area, in addition to crazy golf, nature walks and various other amusements for children. There is also an old mine engine house and a dramatic video presentation telling its history. In addition, the wild flowers, ferns and trees provide a habitat for a large variety of birds, animals and insects.

Amenities on the site include a licensed coffee shop and a gift shop. The railway is close to St Newlyn East and is signed from all the main roads in the area. It is open from the beginning of April to the end of September each year.

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Lappa Valley Steam Railway
Review by: Chris L on 2009-10-20 22:18:31
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I take issue with the first review on here. I thought Lappa Valley was well worth a half hour drive and the entrance charge.

I would say though it is probably best suited to younger children and 70's parents!

Admittedly it isn't the usual chav-tastic Newquay entertainment if that's what you are after. There is a bit of a lack of video games and things electronic in general.

However, if it is trains you are after then there are 3 routes. The adventure playground is pretty good too.

I spent 5 hours there with a 3 year old and he was happy as the whole time.

Perhaps the worst thing about it is the food. Bit 1970s caf style complete with DIY kids lunch kit!

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Lappa Valley Steam Railway
Review by: sam white on 2009-08-07 11:54:10
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This is one of the most enchanting places in cornwall for under 7s. Not only is the setting beautiful, but the activities - train rides , parks and mini golf are wonderfully uncommercial and low key. The site has been lovingly restored by it's owner who should take great pride in what he has achieved. If you want a loud amusement park with enormous rides and machines you will be sorely disppointed but if you toddlers and small children like trains and you want some peace and tranquility than this is for you. Our family loves it.

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Lappa Valley Steam Railway
Review by: Miss Julie Watkins on 2007-08-24 09:41:26
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This is the worst attraction in Newquay.At £8.80 per adult, you are ripped off big style,as you pay the fee, then get taken by a pathetic little train, to an extended garden with very little of interest, where you think,"is this it"? They advertise a maze,but it isn't the mazes with the hedges, but an open brick path, where you can see where you're going.Disappointing is being polite;This is a complete con and I strongly recommend that you all give this place a very wide berth,unless you have alot of money to waste.Otherwise, go to somewhere a lot more worthwhile.

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