Lappa Valley’s 50th Anniversary: A Weekend of Celebrations and Historic Moments

Lappa Valley echoed with the jubilant sounds of whistles and horns this weekend, as one of Cornwall’s most beloved attractions celebrated its 50th birthday with an extraordinary lineup of festivities.

A Three-Day Extravaganza

Over the weekend of 14th to 16th June, Lappa Valley marked its half-century milestone with three days filled with special events and activities. The celebrations featured an impressive timetable of special services, showcasing the railway’s complete roster of working mainline locomotives. The event was further enhanced by the presence of visiting steam and traction engines, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.

One of the weekend’s main attractions was “Zebedee,” Lappa Valley’s original engine, which made a triumphant return following a three-year rebuild. Zebedee’s presence was a highlight for many, drawing crowds eager to witness the historic locomotive in action once again.

Exclusive Celebrations and Historic Reenactments

The festivities kicked off on Friday night with an exclusive celebration. Staff, friends, family, and supporters of Lappa Valley were invited to enjoy private access to the park. The evening featured food, drink, and a spectacular fireworks display set against the backdrop of the iconic nineteenth-century engine house, creating a memorable start to the weekend.

On Sunday morning, the exact moment of the valley’s first-ever service 50 years ago was recreated with Zebedee pulling a full train, including the three original carriages, along the mile-long track between Benny Halt and East Wheal Rose. This historical reenactment was a poignant moment, honouring the valley’s rich heritage.

The Grand Finale

The celebrations culminated on Sunday afternoon with the grand finale – the 1605 service from Benny Halt. This event featured all six mainline locomotives and two carriage sets, forming the longest train in Lappa Valley’s history. The spectacle drew hundreds of spectators who cheered and clapped as the locomotives and their drivers made their final bow.

Keith Southwell, reflecting on the event, said, “It’s been an absolutely fantastic weekend. It was 50 years ago that Lappa Valley opened and wow, what an attraction it’s become. I just want to say thank you to everyone that came to celebrate with us, as well as those who have visited over the years and a huge thank you to every member of staff for everything they’ve done to make Lappa Valley the way it is.”

Ben Harding, Operations Manager, echoed these sentiments, stating, “I am extremely proud of the entire team for pulling off a memorable weekend of celebrations. A lot of hard work went into putting on something which delighted young and old alike. The grand finale saw hundreds of people cheering and clapping as the locomotives and drivers took their final bow. This was an emotional moment and we are grateful to all our visitors for showing how much Lappa Valley means to them.”

As Lappa Valley looks to the future, the weekend’s celebrations have solidified its place as a cherished attraction in Cornwall, beloved by generations past and present.