Blackbird's news from the attractions and suggestions on family days out
1st to 8th August 'Thomas the Tank Engine' will be visiting the Bodmin & Wenford Railway on his annual holiday to Cornwall. However 'Thomas' will not be on the beach - he will be pulling steam trains! You can meet the Fat Controller ad ride in the guard's van behind 'Bill' or 'Ben.' Trains run seven times a day from 10.55am until 4.40pm. 0845 1259678
Cornwall's Crealy Great Adventure Park, between Wadebridge and Newquay, 01841 541215. Exciting rides and adventures, the famous Shire horses and lots of farm animals. Our junior reporters from Sure Start Pebbles loved it. There are five new attractions this Summer: The Swampbusters eco-adventure, Pony Express ride, Singing Chicken Show, Summer Sunflower Maze and October Pumpkin Harvesting.
The China Clay Country Park, near St.Austell (formerly Wheal Martyn), 01726 850362, has undergone a major transformation. The brand new, interactive visitor centre tells the stories of the people who lived, worked and played in the shadows of the clay pits. You can see the modern china clay pit at work with whooshing great monitor jets and giant machinery, and there is a new adventure trail, woodland play area and adventure course.
Dish 'n' Doodle Ceramic Studio, Truro 01872 273095. The whole family will enjoy painting their own masterpieces on plates, mugs etc. not just the children! Collect them a few days later (or they can be posted), all vibrant and shiny with a permanent glaze.
Look out for holiday activities at local leisure centres. Carn Brea, Pool has lots of great things. Also St.Ives Leisure Centre 01736 797006 are offering our readers a 'One child goes free with each paying adult' voucher in the magazine.
Lappa Valley Railway, St.Newlyn East, 01872 510317. Little steam locomotives, Zebedee and Muffin take visitors through a mile of lovely countryside to the site of a famous 19th century mine. There you can go on the lake, play at crazy golf, on the brick path maze and in the play area. You can picnic in the countryside or eat at the coffee shop. It is all wonderfully peaceful. 50p off per person voucher inside the magazine.
Dairyland Farm World, near Newquay, 01872 510349. There are always loads to do, whatever the weather. Outside are lots of animals and well planned play areas, inside, the Bull Pen has huge slides and ball parks. We love the olden days farm exhibition with 'working' machines. The magazine has 75p per person money off voucher inside.
Godolphin House, between Helston and Penzance, 01736 763194. A romantic place, steeped in history with even a ghost or two! Follow a children's trail through the house past displays of maps and armour (my two were so inspired, they played as battling knights in the courtyard with wooden swords and shields from the excellent shop). Enjoy storytelling in the giant tepee and playing in the gardens.
Paradise Park, Hayle 01736 753365. Meet all the wildlife, including penguins and otters at daily feeding times, alpacas and rabbits on the farm and hundreds of colourful parrots. See the birds soar in the 'Flying Bird Show' ad play at 'Fort Paradise.'
The Flambards Experience, Helston 0845 6018684. All sorts of different attractions: scary rides, play zones, an interactive science centre, the wildlife encounter and loads more. The outstanding Victorian Village and 'Britian in the Blitz' are lovingly recreated and restored, accompanied by sounds and even smells.
Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station, near Helston, 0800 679593. The futuristic visitors' centre has interactive exhibits, displays and devices explaining the wonders of international satellite communications. You can email outer space, instruct your own 3d virtual head, operate a satellite dish yourself and try videophones.
Pencarrow, near Bodmin 01208 841369. A glorious Georgian house and gardens with a play area. Dogs welcome. their programme of summer events and outdoor evening performances sounds excellent, with a heavy mix of Jazz, Miracle Theatre and Shakespeare. See calendar for young children-friendly events.
Newquay Zoo 01637 873342, is a great day out. Explore 'The Madagascar Trail' from now until 30th September. Dawn Chorus on 9th July. Coo over the two absolutely gorgeous baby Pot-bellied pigs. Watch the daily feeding times and save up to £6 with our voucher in the magazine.
Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard 01579 320251. Explore the eerily beautiful caverns and subterranean lake, then spot the bronze faery sculptures in the woodland and gardens: a perfect place to take a picnic. 9 / 10 July is the 'Rock, Gem and Mineral Show' with loads for children including puppet shows and entertainers. Free entry to the show for schoolchildren and under 5's.
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