Drolla – The Storytelling Bench Begins Cultural Journey Across Cornwall, Starting at Trebah Gardens

A remarkable new art installation, Drolla – The Storytelling Bench, has begun its cultural tour across Cornwall National Landscape, with its first stop at Trebah Garden. The bench, designed to celebrate Cornwall’s rich heritage, will remain at the popular garden until 27th April 2025, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the region’s folklore, nature, and traditions.

A Celebration of Cornish Identity

Commissioned by Cornwall National Landscape and crafted by Thrussells, a renowned Cornish metal sculptor team, Drolla takes its name from the Cornish word for “folk tale.” The intricately designed metal bench is adorned with symbols of Cornwall’s cultural heritage, featuring mythical creatures, ancient legends, and native wildlife. Each detail encourages visitors to look closer, listen to the landscape, and appreciate the stories woven into Cornwall’s past.

Positioned in Trebah’s Court Garden, Drolla is freely accessible to all, providing a tranquil place to take in the surroundings, listen to birdsong, and embrace the healing power of nature.

“We are delighted to see Drolla begin its journey at Trebah Gardens,” said Emma Browning, Partnership Manager at Cornwall National Landscape. “This project aims to use nature and the arts to foster a deeper connection with the landscape. By sharing stories and cultural traditions through Drolla’s intricate design, we hope to inspire people to cherish and protect Cornwall’s unique environment, while promoting wellbeing and inclusion.”

Bringing Communities Together Through Storytelling

Drolla is more than just a bench—it is a gathering place for storytelling, learning, and wellbeing. Throughout its journey, it will be accompanied by educational activities and community events that explore Cornwall’s local legends, traditional landscapes, and environmental conservation.

For younger visitors, children’s activity sheets will encourage curiosity and deeper engagement with the surrounding environment. The bench also features an interactive QR code, allowing visitors to learn more about the 12 sections of Cornwall National Landscape, which covers around one-third of Cornwall.

Where to Visit and Learn More

Drolla – The Storytelling Bench will be at Trebah Garden until 27th April 2025, before continuing its journey across Cornwall National Landscape. Visitors can explore the installation in person and discover more about its cultural significance at cornwall-landscape.org and www.trebahgarden.co.uk.

Cornwall National Landscape, first designated in 1959, works to conserve and protect Cornwall’s exceptional landscapes. It is jointly funded by Defra (75%) and Cornwall Council (25%), with 22 partner organisations supporting its five-year Management Plan (2022–2027).

For more details on Cornwall National Landscape and its conservation efforts, visit cornwall-landscape.org.