Marmalade on a Scone? Eden Project’s Paddington Event is Stirring Up Controversy!

Cornwall is no stranger to heated debates, but this might just be the most scandalous one yet. Forget jam first or cream first – the Eden Project has thrown a curveball into the great Cornish cream tea debate, and it’s marmalade. Yes, marmalade on a scone.

Before anyone calls for a formal inquiry, there is a reason for this culinary chaos. To celebrate the home release of Paddington in Peru on 14th February, the nation’s most famous bear is visiting the Eden Project from 15th to 23rd February. And as we all know, Paddington doesn’t go anywhere without his beloved marmalade.

A Marmalade Controversy

The Eden Project ignited debate by posting about their marmalade scones on social media, teasing: “Have we perfected the Cornish/Devon cream tea? 🤔🐻🍊🐾☕”. The reaction has been fierce, with Cornish and Devonian traditionalists rallying to defend their regional scone customs.

• Bodmin Jail quipped: “Anyone who does the Devon way should be locked up in Bodmin Jail!”
• Melswatts took a bold stance: “Cream 🐮 first then Marmalade 🍊 on top. Sorry Cornwall!”
• Harbour Hotels, which has properties in both Cornwall and Devon, diplomatically suggested: “Cornish for one side of the scone and Devon for the other! 🙈”
• Over on TikTok, Devon loyalist Anna declared: “The Devon way!! No question about it.”

Even top chefs have joined the fray:

• Mitch Tonks, a Devon-based restaurateur, praised the twist: “What a stroke of genius! Clotted cream spread thick like butter on a doughy scone, topped with a rich fruity marmalade—it’s delicious, why hasn’t it been done before?”
• Emily Scott, a Cornwall-based chef, added: “Paddington has discovered the wonders of the Eden Project and, of course, marmalade. A quintessential Cornish Cream Tea should include warm scones and glowing, glistening marmalade—marmalade first, of course (always).”

Meet Paddington at the Eden Project

For those willing to overlook the potential crime against cream teas, there’s a jam-packed (pun intended) week of activities planned at the Eden Project:

🍊 Meet Paddington himself – He may have questionable scone habits, but he’s undeniably adorable.
🌿 Explore a jungle adventure – Journey through the greenery to uncover hidden treasures.
🎶 Enjoy live Peruvian folk music – A taste of Paddington’s roots in deepest, darkest Peru.

Most activities are included with general admission, but pre-booking is strongly advised.

🗓 Dates: 15th – 23rd February 2025
⏰ Times: 9.30am – 5pm
🎟 More info & tickets: edenproject.com/paddington

Marmalade on a Scone? Not in Cornwall!

Now, Paddington, we need to talk. Cornwall takes the jam-first rule very seriously. In these parts, the sight of marmalade on a scone might cause a reaction stronger than seagulls spotting an unattended pasty.

Will Cornwall embrace this sticky situation, or will Paddington be politely handed a proper strawberry jam-laden scone before he leaves? There’s only one way to find out – head to the Eden Project this half-term and see if the great marmalade debate gets resolved.