Lappa Valley Shortlisted for Prestigious Heritage Railway Award

Photo: Lappa Valley’s flagship Engine Zebedee (red) pulls a train along the mainline, assisted by the attractions latest locomotive “City of Truro” which joined the railway this year

Historic railway near St Newlyn East recognised as one of the UK’s top family attractions.

Lappa Valley, a beloved family attraction near St Newlyn East, has made it to the final four for the coveted “Railway of the Year” award in the Heritage Railway Association (HRA) Awards. Often described as the “Oscars” of the UK’s heritage railway world, the awards highlight excellence and innovation across the sector.

A Rich Railway History

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, Lappa Valley is built around the historic Newquay to Chacewater Branchline, one of Cornwall’s oldest trackbeds. The attraction features a variety of steam, diesel, petrol, and electric locomotives operating across three railways, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into railway history.

In recent years, Lappa Valley has undergone significant transformation, including the addition of a new soft play area, an indoor café, and a brand-new train. These enhancements, alongside continuous investments in infrastructure and activities, have cemented its reputation as a top visitor destination. It has twice been named Cornwall’s best large visitor attraction in the Cornwall Tourism Awards and recently received a gold award in the national Land, Leisure and Tourism Awards.

Photo: Lappa Valley’s flagship Engine Zebedee pulls off the turntable between services

Recognition Amongst Top Contenders

Lappa Valley shares its place on the shortlist with three other distinguished finalists: the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the North Norfolk Railway, and the Vale of Rheidol Railway. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Gateshead this February.

Ben Harding, Lappa Valley’s Operations Director, expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying:
“There are a range of excellent heritage railways operated by very talented people across the country, and we feel very privileged to be recognised alongside them. For fifty years, Lappa Valley has been delighting families and the level of investment in new activities, facilities, trains and railway has been particularly significant since its purchase by current owners Keith and Sara Southwell in 2014.”

Tough Competition Reflecting Industry Excellence

Steve Oates, Chief Executive of the Heritage Railway Association, highlighted the high calibre of this year’s entries, stating:
“We’ve never received so many entries for the HRA Awards. It’s testament to just how much brilliant work is going on and there is a lot for the whole sector to be very proud of.
“We’ve got shortlisted entries from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. From miniature railways, narrow gauge railways, tramways, funiculars and standard gauge lines. Shortlisting has genuinely never been so hard, so we need to give all of the finalists a huge congratulations for making it through to the awards ceremony in the North East during February.”

As Lappa Valley gears up to celebrate its 50th birthday, its inclusion in the prestigious HRA Awards is a fitting recognition of its enduring appeal and continued innovation.

Photo: Steam Locomotive Ellie pulls a train full of passengers from the new tunnel constructed in the old mine workings of East Wheal Rose Mine.