Cornish Mining Documentary The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay Wins Top Award at Kendal Mountain Festival

Cornwall’s forgotten mines and the men who step inside them have become the focus of a major award after The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay won Best Adventure and Exploration Film at the Kendal Mountain Festival 2025.

A Major Win for a Cornish Story

Directed by Dan Simpkins and edited by Angus Breton, the documentary was selected from more than 600 international submissions. Festival organisers praised the film for its emotional depth and its focus on a group of underground explorers who find connection and purpose in the disused mines of Carbis Bay.

In their official statement, the festival jury said:
“Adventure and exploration take many forms, and this category has long honoured bold stories from the farthest corners of the world. But true exploration can also be inward, a quiet, often challenging journey into who we are, what we fear, and what we need from one another.
This year, we recognise a filmmaker who captures that duality with striking clarity, following a group of men whose chosen pursuit tucked away in the far-flung depths of the Cornish coast becomes a lifeline. Their world may be niche, dark, damp, even dangerous, but within it they uncover something universal; the grounding power of community, and the quiet courage it takes to show up for one another. This film is a heartfelt reminder that belonging can emerge in the most unexpected places, and that exploration of the inner landscape can be every bit as profound as any physical journey.”
Emma Crome, member of the 2025 Kendal Mountain Festival Film Jury.

Festival organisers added:
“As soon as this film was submitted for consideration at Kendal, we knew we’d found a gem like an artefact discovered down one of the mines explored by the Carbis Bay Crew, this film has a kind of magic that can only be found in a film that’s shown utter dedication a labour of love to its director.
At Kendal we champion films that explore different facets of adventure with delicacy, craft, and above all, films which let the people within them shine. And this film it’s all about the people. We can’t wait to see what Dan and the team go on to create, and we are so pleased that The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay is now part of the Kendal Mountain family.”
Faye Latham, Film & Arts Manager at Kendal Mountain Festival.

Cornwall’s Underground Community

The documentary follows The Carbis Bay Crew, a group whose subterranean explorations give them space to reset and reconnect. Shot over two years, the film looks at themes of masculinity, men’s mental health, and the quiet bonds forged underground.

Director Dan Simpkins said:
“This film isn’t just about mine exploration it’s about what we carry with us and the places we feel safe enough to let go. The men at the heart of this story opened their world to me, and this award honours their honesty as much as the filmmaking.”

Crew member Pat Moret added:
“I am really proud to have been involved in this project that shines a light on a pretty alternative passion and pastime in Cornwall.”
He also joked while admiring the award, “Even my kids are impressed.”

The trophies were created by Chamonix-based artist Andy Parkin, using salvaged climbing equipment from the Alps.

A Creative Partnership Rooted in Cornwall

Dan worked closely with editor Angus Breton, whose connection to Cornwall helped shape the documentary.

Angus said:
“Loneliness is a huge issue in the UK. Seeing a group find real connection in such an unexpected place is incredibly powerful. We wanted the film to feel raw, grounded, and true to the Cornwall we know.”

Producer Kirsty Malcolm of Roll Nine hopes the film sparks conversations around men’s mental health.
“This is a story about ordinary men who rarely see themselves reflected on screen and about men finding community, something my dad didn’t have in his moment of need. Holding onto hope can be incredibly difficult when you feel alone, and that’s why stories like this matter. I hope this film encourages men to reach out, to stand alongside each other even if that means dangling off a rope down a mine.”

Partnering with MANUP?

The film was created in collaboration with men’s mental health charity MANUP?.

Dan Somers, MANUP? CEO, said:
“The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay shows what we see daily. Connection doesn’t have to happen in a therapy room it happens in the quiet moments, the risk, the humour, and the trust between men who feel unseen. This film gives those moments visibility.”

See the Film in Cornwall This January

At least six cinema screenings are planned across Cornwall in January, many with Q&A sessions featuring cast and crew.

Screening dates and tickets:
● 9th January 2025, Regal Cinema & Theatre, Redruth, 19:00 on sale now
Find the film in the coming soon section: Regal Cinema Redruth tickets

● 10th January 2025, Newlyn Filmhouse coming soon

● 11th January 2025, Capitol Cinema, Bodmin, 19:00 on sale now – Capitol Cinema Bodmin tickets

● 17th January 2025, Saltash Studios, Saltash on sale now – Saltash Studios tickets

● 18th January 2025, Regal Cinema, Wadebridge coming soon

● 24th January 2025, The Poly, Falmouth, 18:00 on sale now – The Poly Falmouth tickets

What Comes Next

The team is now looking for new stories and welcomes contact from festivals, broadcasters and distributors who connect with the spirit of the film. They are also interested in communities who feel their stories should be told on screen.

Roll Nine, run by Kirsty Malcolm, continues to produce documentaries, commercials and social content from bases in London and Stockholm.

Director Dan Simpkins is open to new work.

Editor Angus Breton also welcomes commissions:

For a full list of winners at Kendal Mountain Festival: Festival winners