Full steam ahead for an exciting autumn and winter

Lappa Valley is preparing for an exciting finish to 2026, with much-loved locomotives, a visit from PAW Patrol’s Chase, spectacular fireworks and the return of Father Christmas all on the calendar.

The family attraction at St Newlyn East, near Newquay, says bookings for its forthcoming Fireworks and Father Christmas events are going well, with positive feedback from visitors adding to the team’s enthusiasm for the months ahead.

First up, Original Engines Weekend takes place from 10–12 October, celebrating the locomotives that have helped shape Lappa Valley’s story over the past 52 years. Visitors can enjoy rides behind original engines, including flagship locomotive Zebedee, whose familiar presence holds a special place in the memories of generations of families.

There will be further excitement on 25 and 26 October when Chase from PAW Patrol visits Lappa Valley. The popular character will make appearances at intervals throughout each day, giving young fans the chance to see him during their family day out. Standard admission prices apply, with free admission for Lappa Valley Members, although pre-booking is essential for everyone. Bookings open at 10am on Monday 14 September.

Later that week, the valley will provide a dramatic setting for the Fireworks Spectaculars on 30 and 31 October. Families will travel by train through the twilight to East Wheal Rose, where festoon lighting and the illuminated historic Engine House will set the scene for an evening of entertainment.

Alongside the fireworks display, visitors can enjoy The Engine Shed Soft Play, Adventure Golf and rides on the Lakeside Railway before the display, with food and warming drinks available from the café. Tickets are on sale now, and admission is strictly by advance booking.

Ben Harding, Operations Director at Lappa Valley, said: “These are really exciting times for Lappa Valley. We’ve had so much lovely feedback from families this summer, and it means a great deal to the whole team to hear about the memories people are making here.

“Bookings for our Fireworks and Father Christmas events are going really well, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we get everything ready. A huge amount of care goes into these occasions, from preparing the trains to the little details that make a family’s visit feel special.

“For some families, these events are already an annual tradition. For others, this will be their first visit, and we can’t wait to welcome them on board.”

The year’s festive finale begins on 28 November, with Father Christmas at Lappa Valley running on selected dates until Christmas Eve. A train journey through the winter countryside leads to a festive day out, including a visit to Father Christmas in his grotto, a present for every child, seasonal refreshments and opportunities to play.

Dedicated SEND trains will run at 9.30am, 10.30am and 11.30am on Saturday 5 December, offering adaptations including quieter music, static lighting and brighter grottos. These services can be booked by calling 01872 510317 between 9am and 5pm.

With bookings already under way for the Fireworks and Father Christmas experiences, families are encouraged to plan ahead to secure their preferred date.

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