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    Accessible Christmas adventures in Cornwall

    The Eden Project Biomes lit in different colours at night

    Accessible Christmas Events in Cornwall 2024

    Cornwall truly shines during the festive season, offering magical experiences for everyone. Many events this year are making strides to ensure accessibility for all, providing sensory-friendly options and accommodations. Here’s a roundup of events and tips for an inclusive Christmas in Cornwall:

     

    1. Trebah Garden’s Festive Activities

    Trebah Garden offers a variety of Christmas events, each designed to spread festive cheer. Here’s what you can look forward to:

    • Festive Wreath Making Workshops: Get hands-on and craft your own beautiful wreath to bring home.
      🗓 Starts 29th November 2024
    • Christmas Lunches: Savor delicious festive meals surrounded by the beauty of Trebah Garden.
      🗓 Starts 29th November 2024
    • Stories With Santa: Join Santa for storytelling sessions in his cozy log cabin.
      🗓 Starts 7th December 2024
    • Winter Florals Painting Workshop: A creative workshop focusing on seasonal florals.
      🗓 9th December 2024
    • Carrick Recorders Christmas Concert: Enjoy a delightful festive recital.
      🗓 13th December 2024
    • Relaxed Stories With Santa: Sensory-friendly storytelling sessions for a calm and inclusive experience.
      🗓 Starts 14th December 2024

    Trebah’s relaxed sessions and accessible pathways make it a welcoming destination for all.
    📍 Trebah Garden, Falmouth
    💻 More info: Trebah Garden

     

     

    A wooden sign saying Santas Workshop above a doorway

     

     

    2. Winter Wood by Rogue Theatre

    Venture into Tehidy Woods for a truly enchanting experience with live music, festive stories, and magical performances. The accessible pathways ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities, while the immersive atmosphere offers something special for families. Free hot chocolate and crafting make it extra cozy.
    📍 Tehidy Woods, North Cliffs
    🗓 December 9–30
    💻 More info: Rogue Theatre

    ”

    Rogue returns to Tehidy Woods, North Cliffs this December with a wild-magic celebration of winter; Winter Wood!

    Follow the path into the Winter Wood and lose yourself in the dreamscape of nature.

    Gather, as Old Man Winter weaves flying deer magic with ember tales, and star songs of night’s mysteries as he catches wishes whispered to the changing winds.

    Created by Cornwall’s award winning immersive and highly visual Rogue Otherworld,

    Winter Wood is an immersive adventure for families and those who seek midwinter magick!”

     

    A poster for Winter Wood, with a drawing of a man wearing a holly and fur crown

     

     

    3. Eden Project Christmas Lights & Accessible Ice Rink

    The Eden Project transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling light displays and an accessible ice rink. Enjoy sensory-friendly sessions with reduced noise levels, making it a perfect destination for everyone to soak up the festive spirit. Meet Father Christmas in an immersive family friendly theatrical experience with relaxed sessions available.
    📍 Eden Project, Bodelva
    🗓 Throughout December
    💻 More info: Eden Project

     

     

    The Eden Project Biomes lit in different colours at night

     

    4. Wheal Martyn Lantern Trail

    Get into the festive spirit with the Wheal Martyn Lantern Trail, an atmospheric evening perfect for the whole family! 🎄

    🕯️ Activities include:

    • Lantern-making and willow crafting
    • Toasting marshmallows around a cozy campfire
    • A magical lantern-lit walk through the historic grounds
    • A festive sing-along in the Wheal Martyn Café

    🍽️ The café will be open before and after the event, serving hot chocolate, festive treats, and pre-bookable pasties to keep you warm and satisfied.

    📅 Date: December 9, 2024
    🕒 Time: 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
    🎟️ Price: £5 for adults, £5 for children
    💌 Contact: info@wheal-martyn.com

    This special event is a collaboration with Choose Nature CIC, with proceeds supporting both organizations. Don’t miss this heartwarming experience for a great cause!

    💻 More info: Wheal Martyn Lantern Trail

     

    Three glass lanterns decorated with leaves.

     

     

    5. Sensory-Friendly Santa Visits at Par Market 🎅

    Make magical memories this Christmas at Par Market’s Santa’s Grotto—a welcoming, accessible space for families to meet Santa in a calm and festive environment.

    🎄 When:

    • Open every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    • Running from November 9th to December 22nd

    🎁 Cost:

    • Just £5 per child, which includes a meet-and-greet with Santa and a small gift

    📸 Photos:

    • Capture the magic by taking your own photos during the visit!

    🧩 Nutcracker Trail:

    • Don’t miss the family-friendly scavenger hunt, where you’ll search for hidden Nutcracker soldiers around the market. Find them all, and you’ll be entered into a draw to win an iPad Air!

    💡 Accessibility:
    Par Market ensures everyone feels included with trained staff and sensory-friendly settings, making it a stress-free joy for children and families.

    No need to book in advance—just show up and enjoy the festive fun! Make sure to visit early to avoid crowds as Christmas gets closer.

    📍 Location: Par Market
    🎟️ More info: Par Market

    Bring the whole family and immerse yourselves in the Christmas spirit—Santa and the Nutcrackers are waiting! 🎅✨

     

    An advert for Par market Santa's grotto, decorated with Christmas trees, snowmen and reindeer with a photo of Mrs Christmas and an elf with Father Christmas.

     

     

    6. Heligan Night Garden 🌌

    Experience the magic of Christmas at the Heligan Night Garden, where the historic Lost Gardens of Heligan transform into a spectacular sensory wonderland. This enchanting evening event is designed to be accessible for all, offering wide, flat pathways suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, so everyone can enjoy the festive lights.

    ✨ What to Expect:

    • Wander through beautifully illuminated gardens, lit with thousands of sparkling lights.
    • Enjoy a magical sensory experience with peaceful settings perfect for families.
    • Accessible facilities, including seating areas and rest stops, ensure comfort for all visitors.

    📍 Location: Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell
    🗓 When: Selected evenings throughout December
    🎟️ Tickets: Pre-booking is essential. Prices and availability are on Heligan’s website.

    💡 Tips for Visitors:

    • Wear sturdy footwear and warm clothing to enjoy the outdoor trails.
    • Sensory-friendly sessions are available for those who prefer a quieter experience.

    Discover the festive magic in a tranquil, inclusive atmosphere perfect for creating cherished Christmas memories.

    💻 More info: Heligan Night Garden

     

    A lit up mushroom sculpture with a black background and the words "Heligan Night Garden"

     

     

    7. Quiet Train Experience at Bodmin Railway 🚂

    This Christmas, Bodmin Railway is offering a special Quiet Train Departure to ensure the magic of the season is accessible to everyone, including those with sensory sensitivities.

    ✨ What’s Special About the Quiet Train?

    • Date & Time: Saturday, December 7th, at 3:50 PM.
    • Reduced Sensory Stimulation: Festive music, station lights, and other sensory inputs will be significantly lowered for a calmer experience.
    • Smaller Capacity: Fewer tickets are sold for this departure to create a relaxed atmosphere.
    • Radio Dispatch: Trains will use radios instead of traditional whistles for quieter operations.

    🎄 Other Festive Activities at Bodmin Railway:

    • Ride a heritage steam train decorated in Christmas cheer.
    • Enjoy a 50-minute return trip to Bodmin Parkway, with each child receiving a plush gift from Santa.
    • Explore a magical light tunnel and peek into Santa’s cozy front room.
    • Take part in children’s crafts and activity sheets.
    • Adults can sip mulled beverages or hot chocolate at the station bar.

    📍 Location: Bodmin Railway, Cornwall
    🎟️ Tickets: Regular pricing applies. Early booking is highly recommended to secure your spot on the Quiet Train.

    💻 More info: Bodmin Railway Quiet Train

    Don’t miss this inclusive and magical Christmas experience designed with accessibility in mind! 🎅

     

    Santa stood with two train drivers on the front of a steam train

     

    8. Jack and the Beanstalk at Hall for Cornwall 🌱🎭

    Get ready for a giant Cornish panto packed with festive fun! Jack and the Beanstalk at Hall for Cornwall promises laughter, adventure, and a magical time for the whole family. Starring local legend Edward Rowe (Kernow King) as Dame Trott, this pantomime is a must-see this Christmas season.

    ✨ Accessibility Highlights:

    • BSL-Interpreted Performances: A live interpreter will sign the performance, making it inclusive for D/deaf audiences.
    • Audio Described Shows: Hear detailed descriptions of the set, costumes, and onstage action through a headset, enhancing the experience for visually impaired guests.
    • Relaxed Performances: Enjoy a sensory-friendly atmosphere with reduced lighting, sound effects, and a flexible environment for everyone to feel comfortable.
    • Captioned Shows: Follow along with on-screen text that displays the script.
    • Touch Tours: Explore the set and props before the show, offering a tactile experience for visually impaired attendees.

    🏟️ Accessible Venue Features:

    • Wheelchair-accessible seating across 13 designated spaces in the stalls and circle.
    • Step-free access via ramps and lifts to key areas.
    • Facilities such as a Space to Change room, induction loops, and an assisted listening system.

    🎟️ Tickets: From £15—book early for the best availability!
    📅 Show Dates: December 2024
    💻 More info: Hall for Cornwall

    Don’t miss this festive family adventure filled with Cornish spirit, music, and plant-powered puns. Grab your tickets and head for the clouds with Jack and the gang! 🌟

     

    Jack and the Beqanstalk poster showing some of the cast stood in front of a beanstalk.

     

    Cornwall is embracing the spirit of inclusivity this Christmas, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s make this holiday season merry, bright, and accessible! 🎄