Easter holidays 2023
30,000 copies across Cornwall and on-line
Easter holidays 2023
30,000 copies across Cornwall and on-line
What’s on this Easter Spring calendar 2023
Egg Hunts Adventures by bus Museums, & Galleries
Wasabi the wonder seal
Outdoor Adventures Theatre shows Pirates!
Indoor fun
Fairy tales with a twist NHS vaccines
Vouchers & offers:
Jungle Jacks, page 4
Pendennis Castle, page 7
Paradise Park, page 7
Kernow Adventure Park, page 8
Cornwall Heritage Trust, page 8
Camel Creek, page 9
Travel by Bus, page 15 COAST, page 19
This Easter holidays, climb on board for an open-top bus adventure around some top destinations and attractions in Cornwall. Soak up the sights from the top deck as they wind their way around Land’s End, Sennen, St. Ives, Falmouth, Penzance, and many more fantastic locations!
At this time of year, you have a variety of options and destinations to choose from…
Land’s End Coaster – This adventure showcases rugged coastlines, mining heritage sites, harbour towns and the attraction of Land’s End.
Falmouth Coaster – a great and simple way to make the most of the great views of the waterside, Pendennis Castle, the pretty town of Falmouth and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.
Sunseeker – Use the Sunseeker to get you into St Ives or to any of the fabulous beaches along the way - and remember, your ticket lasts all day, so you can go on to somewhere else later.
Tin Coaster – If you want a quick ride out of Penzance to St Just, Geevor Tin Mine or Pendeen, or a speedy trip back to Penzance, the open top Tin Coaster service is perfect and you might spot an ancient stone monument or two!
Whether you are looking for a day out exploring the pretty villages and beaches or want to hop on and off to top visitor attractions, or perhaps just a leisurely trip where you can sit back and soak up the sights, Adventures by Bus routes can take you there!
Stay tuned for more adventures to come at the end of May… Adventuresbybus.co.uk
Twitter: @adventuresbybus Facebook: /Adventuresbybus
In this issue:
Page(s):
2 & 15 Amazing adventures by bus
4 to 9 What’s on
6 Seal Sanctuary Stories: Wasabi the wonder pup
9 Egg hunts, Minions & Bing at Camel Creek
10 & 11 Calendar of events for end of March, April and early May
12 to 14 Theatre Shows
16 Pirates! National Maritime Museum Cornwall’s fabulous new exhibition and Pirate Academy
16 & 17 Indoor fun suggestions
18 Fairy tales with a twist - book review
19 NHS vaccines. COAST Easter holiday activity programme
Dear Readers, Happy Easter! The Pie is stuffed with plenty of delightful, gentle and magical things to enjoy and some exciting, heart-pounding activities – including Camelot weaponry in action at the Poly (eggs will be decapitated!) and Piratical happenings at the Maritime Museum.
The Easter Bunny is very busythere are Egg Hunts all over the place! As usual our amazing Museums & Galleries have some wonderful, low cost / free activities and annual passes for locals which make repeat visits free; there are vouchers, offers and free activities throughout the magazine.
Outdoor adventures abound, on the land and sea, and if the weather is iffy there are some top suggestions for Indoor Fun on page 17.
Do jump on a bus for an amazing adventure and have a wonderful spring, Vanessa, Simon and the Blackbird
We believe that all details are correct at the time of going to print but cannot accept any responsibility for mistakes or omissions. We try to ensure all events featured will be enjoyed by younger children but in some instances we cannot test this and have to rely on the opinions of the organisers.
Contact us at: “ Blackbird Pie” , Flying Pig Publishing, 3 Basset Place, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 2SS
post@blackbirdpie.co.uk
01326 314242 www.blackbirdpie.co.uk
Caerhays Castle Gardens have over 140 acres of magical woodland gardens to explore. Visit with little ones and enjoy our Bird Box trail and the gardens at their very best!
For more information visit our website www.caerhays.co.uk or call on 01872 501310
Please mention Blackbird Pie. See pages 12 to 14 for theatre shows, and pages 16 & 17 for National Maritime Museum, Falmouth, and Indoor Fun.
Spring into Nature this Easter holidays at Newquay Zoo and enjoy animal talks and fun, interactive activities every day. Discover new and unusual species, and get up close to some of the wonders of the natural world. There are lots of outdoor play areas to let off steam. For best prices book online www.newquayzoo.org.uk and check out the mesmerising meerkat webcam.
Heartlands, Pool. 1 to 16 Apr: Easter Egg Hunt roam around the site in search of clues, £2, each child gets a chocolate egg. 8 Apr at 2pm: Squashbox Theatre Tales from the Trees is a terrific tangle of puppetry, storytelling, live music and comedy, with natural history theme, for age 4+. www.heartlandscornwall.com
Pendennis Castle (English Heritage) 1 to 16 Apr: embark on a cracking adventure quest - explore the castle grounds, hunt for clues & challenges, and discover traditional Easter games. Track down Easter eggs and you’ll be rewarded with an adventurer’s certificate and a chocolate treat, £2 plus standard entry. Eggs, chocolate, and family fun - it’s the perfect way to get out and about in history. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/pendennis-castleeaster-adventure-quest-1-16-april-2023/
Trebah Garden, Mawnan Smith.
Until 31 Mar: Trebah’s Tree Hugging Trail Game and discover tree-mendous trees, £2.50 includes a prize & donation to www. plantonecornwall.com. Then at Easter, Trebah celebrates COLOUR! Resident artist (pictured above), Chloë Tinsley’s vibrant new exhibition (free-to-visit Visitor Centre) is spilling out as family trail around the 26-acre site. Experience colour in the garden in a new way, respond creatively with materials along the trail and help build a display in the exhibition. This year there will be a bumper load of family events in the 300-seat amphitheatre, a host of creative workshops (many free) and lots of foodie events for families. Trebah announce events in ‘waves’ so keep up to date with their events list at www.trebahgarden.co.uk/events-newsletter
Kernow Adventure Park is an outdoor activity centre within the 21-acre site of a flooded quarry, a haven for nature and wildlife, hidden just 10 minutes outside Falmouth. There are four activities to choose from: you can get your adrenalin going bouncing and laughing around the aquapark (age 6 years+); enjoy a leisurely paddle board across the crystal clear waters of the lake; open water swim lanes; navigate through the buoys and obstacles out on the water on an E-boat adventure (age 2 years+). The Aquapark is £20 per person which includes shorty wetsuit hire and buoyancy aid, get 10% discount with the QR code on page 8. 07817 662 962
www.kernowadventurepark.com/
Caerhays Castle, Gorran, the Spring Gardens open daily from 10am to 5pm until 11 June and the Castle is open for guided tours from 13 Mar to 9 June (weekdays only). There are over 140 acres of magical woodland gardens to explore and from the beginning of April get bird-spotting with the Bird Box trail. Adults £10, children £5, under 5 years free. www.visit.caerhays.co.uk 01872 501310
Cornwall Sailing Trust - Watersports for big and little kids! Birthday parties, paddle-sport sessions, family fun on the lake or learn to sail on the river. Two locations to choose: Helford River, RYA stages 1 to 4 sailing courses for beginners, improvers and advanced. Trevassack Lake, Helston: multi-activity and SEND sessions. 01326 702326 www.CSTexperiences.co.uk email: hello@CSTexperiences.co.uk
Paradise Park, Hayle, celebrates its 50th year in 2023! The award-winning sanctuary is set in exotic gardens and there are over 1,200 stunning birds to meet, from spectacular parrots & Cornish choughs to golden and bald eagles. There are Keeper talks, penguins fed twice a day, and you can feed cute the Fun Farm’s Pygmy goats and Ouessant sheep. Buy nectar and feed colourful Lorikeet parrots and enjoy lots of animals from red pandas to cute harvest mice. Take a ride on Zebedee, the Jungle Express Train, through the gardens, past the Parrot Jungle, and along a twinkly tunnel (small extra charge). 1 to 16 Apr: have a cracking time on the Easter Golden Egg Challenge, complete the quiz and claim chocolate! Tickets deal see https://paradisepark.org.uk/ plan-your-visit/admission-prices/great-value-return-tickets/ Visit the huge indoor JungleBarn play centre. To book see page 7.
The Box, Plymouth’s award-winning museum & art gallery (free admission) 3 Mar to 26 May: Friday morning half an hour story time sessions for under 5s. 1, 2, 4 to 6, 11 to 15 & 22 Apr: The Art Fund’s Wild Escape, free, family-friendly drop-in sessions inspired by Six-Banded nomad bees; make headdresses and seed balls to bee homes and puppets; activities change daily; be creative and learn more about this amazing insect and The Box’s natural history collections. The Wild Escape project is inspired by Wild Isles, David Attenborough’s 2023 BBC series about Britain’s spectacular wildlife. www.theboxplymouth.com
novelEnglish is a unique, wonderfully different, educational enterprise in the heart of the Lizard. This holiday, choose from three magical courses: 3 to 6 Apr: Dive into the Rabbit Hole to discover Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland; 11 to 14 Apr: escape into literature in more ways than one with Anne of Green Gables (both residential, with non-residential options); or on 15 April embark on the greatest treasure hunt in The Story of the Treasure Seekers (non-residential). To book or find out more, email enquiries@novelenglish.co.uk www.novelenglish.co.uk
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, www.heligan.com under 5s go free. 1 to 16 Apr: this spring, get rooted in nature and take part in a Heligan Easter hunt with a twist. Search for the many joys within the season - explore the science and magic of roots and shoots and the commitment, skill and joy of nature. Heligan look forward to welcoming ‘ewe’ to meet new-borns and learn about the lambing season. (Heligan Local’s Pass - pay once get in free for a year)
Tate St Ives, Free entry for under 18s. 3 to 14 Apr: Tate Create Easter - Wild Art Garden, 11 to 3pm, please mention Blackbird Pie. Free with entry (free for members / Locals’ Pass) create crazy creatures for the Tate’s wild art garden. 18 Apr: Toddle Tate, 10.30am, to 12.30pm, session for under 5s, stack, sculpt & create in the sculpture studio for tiny artists, £1 adult admission (free with Locals’ Pass).
Step through the doors of the Cornish Seal Sanctuary this month, and you’ll see the animal care team in full swing as they come to the end of another busy grey seal pup season.
Over winter, numerous young pups come through their doors and 98% of them were helped back out to the wild with the rescue, rehabilitation and release programme.
One of this season’s success stories is a special pup called Wasabi, who came to the Sanctuary weighing just 17kg and suffering from a very infected rear flipper, other flipper wounds and a loose nail. The team jumped into action, providing around-the-clock care to treat his wounds and a course of antibiotics. But when the antibiotics didn’t work, Wasabi had to go into surgery and have his rear flipper amputated. After weeks of recovery to ensure he could cope with his new disability, he made incredible progress and the team were able to release him successfully back into the wild! He’s now back where he belongs, while his space at the Sanctuary is taken by another pup in need.
It’s only thanks to visitors and supporters that the Sanctuary can help pups like Wasabi – and now is the perfect time to see them in action. Come and meet the numerous rescued and recovering pups in Gweek, for a day out that makes a difference.
Sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.org
01326 221361 or email seals@sealifetrust.com
The Leach Pottery, St Ives, programme of family workshops, under-fives activities and family-focused museum interpretation, book on www.leachpottery.com. Easter Holidays – 4, 5, 11 & 13 Apr 11am: egg cups, salt & pepper pots workshop, all ages, £8. 6 Apr 10 to 11am, 1.45 to 2.45pm: throwing on a potter’s wheel, £8, ages 7 to 11. 18 Mar & 8 Apr: fun clay pot workshops for all ages, drop-in 10am to 12noon, £6 or free for TR26 and TR27 postcodes (bring proof); more dates to follow. Spring Trail – find chocolate eggs. Via Ferrata, Goodygrane Activity Centre, Long Downs, Penryn - an epic high-wire adventure involving scaling cliff faces and braving the high wire bridge across the old quarries. New for 2023 is the Zip Wire Safari! Soar past stunning scenery on three exhilarating zip wires and enjoy the thrill of traversing along the quarry edge as you navigate between zip wires. The dual zip = double the fun, leap from the quarry edge and fly around together! Perfect for all ages from 8-years+, and 20% off gift vouchers. Adventure Holiday Club: treat your 6 to 13-year-olds to Cornwall’s most exciting childcare! Flexible options are available to suit working parents. https://viaferratacornwall.co.uk/holiday-club/ Hayle Heritage Centre reopens on 11 April
with free family activities: drop-in Easter craft activities all day, and a new pop-up exhibition about J & F Pool Copperworks. Find sensory activities in the Millpond Gardens - developed with the More than Words project - discover the stories of Hayle using touch, sound, colours, and smells, and enjoy sensory storytelling performances. 14 Apr: perforated lantern-making workshops using pattern-making techniques, for all ages, 11am to 3.30pm, details on Facebook Hayle Heritage Centre, Instagram Hayleheritagecentre, & hayleheritagecentre.org.uk, or call 01736 757683.
Round off a visit to the idyllic Seal Sanctuary (page 6) at the refurbed, breastfeeding-friendly Gweek Village Stores with its wide range of takeaways (inc vegan & gluten-free) served from a jolly icecream-van-themed hatch, family activities in the marquee, and there is free off-road parking.
The Poly, Falmouth. 4 Apr: Easter workshop 11am to 12noon, paint pre-made Easter shapes (eggs, bunnies etc) with assistant potter Mawgan, for age 5+, £5. 11 Apr, 11am to 12noon: Knightly Weapons of The Round Table, travel to the armoury of the great castle of Camelot, home to King Arthur’s court and join the Master at Arms as he shows off weapons used on legendary quests! Prepare to see Easter eggs smashed, cantaloupe bashed and learn secrets from Merlin’s workshop. After the show view the weapons and pose for pictures. For ages 5+, £6. 28 May, 2pm: Coppice Theatre’s Science Adventures: Deep Sea, see page 14.
The National Lobster Hatchery, South Quay, Padstow 01841 533877. Have you got a budding marine biologist who wants to get stuck into learning about Cornwall’s amazing sea life? 3 to 14 Apr: the infamous Mini Marine Biologist campaign is back with a range of interactive activities, all included with entry and annual passes.
What's on - continued from page 7
Swamp Circus: 6 to 12 Apr: Circus Camp! Chyan Cultural Centre, near Penryn. Enjoy a full weekend with camping or purchase day passes 10am to 3.30pm. Learn circus skills, from high wire to trapeze, unicycle to acrobatics, and more. Great for beginners as well as circus fanatics. Be entertained in the big top & relax in the spa. Either stay and join in or drop-off children for full/half days (age 8yrs+). Book on www.ticketsource.co.uk/swamp-circus 07775 857677 Can’t make it or want more? Sign up to Summer 2023 Camp (24-28 Aug)
Falmouth Art Gallery, free entry, family creative workshops and activities, see www.falmouthartgallery.com 01326 313863
Easter at Eden, April. Locals’ Pass available from 1 Apr, unlimited entry for a year, family ticket direct debit £27. 1 to 16 Apr: Get, Set, Grow! Take on challenges, & discover how we can grow and eat our way to a healthier planet – with lots of treats and prizes to be won! Craft workshops £1, book on www.edenproject.com
Bodmin Keep, 3 to 16 Apr
10am to 4pm: Easter fun-filled activities and museum trails - meet young collectors and soldiers, participate in hands-on learning, and try-on uniforms from the dressing-up box! All activities free with entry, annual pass: £9 adult, £5 child, free for under 5s. Family rates available. Note: some activities have an additional charge. See what’s on each day, and to book visit www.bodminkeep.org.uk
Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance. Free workshopsSaturday Arty Afternoons 2.30 to 3.30pm -1 Apr: add April Fool’s fun to famous faces! 8 Apr: make seascapes for pop-up boats; 15 Apr: design postcards using Penlee paintings; 22 Apr: stained glass windows. Easter holiday Thursdays 1.30 to 4pm - 6 Apr: Pop-up Easter Cards; 13 Apr: Paper Plate Birds.
Baby & Parent free sessions exploring amazing artworks & enjoying sensory play in the gallery on 20 Mar, 3, 17 Apr. penleehouse.org.uk or phone 01736 363625.
Mark’s Ark Wildlife parties provide a brilliant, entertaining, interactive, hands-on animal show for children of all ages. With 25 years of experience, Mark provides a fantastic opportunity to hold tarantulas, snakes, lizards and owls, in a safe, controlled manner. Fully insured, risk assessed, and brilliant value! 07761810900, email mark@marks-ark.co.uk. For parties, school visits, weddings and events.
Cornwall Heritage Trust. Cornwall Heritage Trust cares for 13 fascinating historic Cornish places, which are free to enter. From uncovering ancient houses at Carn Euny to enjoying the view from Treffry Viaduct, there’s something for all the family! Cornwall Heritage Trust’s members are the reason it can protect these special places, and members receive a wealth of benefits as a thank you. From just £20 a year, family membership benefits include* free entry to the Cornish sites owned by English Heritage, free entry to Geevor Tin Mine Museum, discounted entry to Heritage Partner sites, a fun-filled Children’s Activity Book and more. Quote ‘BlackbirdPie’ at the checkout and receive free Cornish fudge with your membership pack! Find out more at www.cornwallheritagetrust.org *Terms and conditions apply.
The Time2Move Holiday Programme pulls together providers across Cornwall to put on free-of-charge activities & sports for 5- to 16-year-olds who are eligible for free school meals. Easter activities (3 to 7 & 10 to 14 Apr), include fun, entertaining activities and a free healthy meal. Those not receiving free school meals are very welcome, for a small fee. 01872 323335 or email Time2Move. HolidayProgramme@cornwall.gov.uk See page 19 for COAST.
With exciting adventure around every corner, there is plenty for young families and children of varying ages— from thrill rides, adrenalin rushes, and rides for little ones, to animal handling sessions and junior zookeeper experiences.
From 1 to 16 April take the Easter Egg Trail, unscramble the eggthemed challenge, and win yourself a chocolate egg. Meet and Greet the mischevious Minions, Bob and Stuart, on 4 & 5 April. On 11 & 12 April Meet and Greet, and storytime (new for 2023), with Bing, the beloved bunny!
Use online code BBPEaster for £2 off per person.
Camel Creek is host to a variety of animals – from riveting reptiles to creepy crawlies, majestic horses to mischievous meerkats – every path throughout the park leads to new experiences.
The indoor soft-play is open all year round, however ride opening times vary during low-peak season. Please check the ride status page at www.camelcreek.co.uk prior to visiting.
Mons Minnows Tales, NMMC, Falmouth, term time, drop-in 11 to 11.30am, stories, songs, and rhymes for under 5s, free, adults free with annual pass
Fridays Storytelling, The Box, Plymouth, every Friday 10.30am, free admission
Sats Free Arty Afternoons, Penlee House, Penzance, 2.30 to 3.30pm, 1 Apr: April Fool’s fun, 8 Apr: make seascapes & pop-up boats, 15 Apr: design postcards; 22 Apr: stained glass windows.
Until 31 Mar Tree Hugging Trail Game, Trebah, Mawnan Smith, discover tree-mendous trees, £2.50 includes a prize & donation to www.plantonecornwall.com
Until 1 May Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life exhibition, Tate St Ives, explorer cards & art challenges, free with admission, under 18s free entry, Locals’ offer, mention BlackbirdPie
until 11 June Bird Box Trail, Caerhays Castle, Gorran, Spring Gardens open daily 10am to 5pm, explore 140 acres of magical woodland gardens; weekdays 13 Mar to 9 June: castle guided tours, under 5s free. 01872 501310
18 Mar Kowetha event, PK Porthcurno, guided museum tour & tailored workshop for families of colour, details - email kowetha@live.co.uk
20 Mar Little Penlee, Penlee House, Penzance, free session for babies to crawlers, & on 3, 17 Apr
23 to 25
The Emperor of Mabe’s New Clothes, Mabe Community Hall, tickets from Mabe shop, 7pm plus Sat 1.30pm
24 & 25 Mar Alice - The Musical, ACT 1 Youth Theatre at Epworth Hall, Helston, based on Alice in Wonderland, with high energy, catchy songs, www.crbo.co.uk 01726 63513
25 Mar Endelienta Arts Make Club, St Endellion Hall, led by artists, make spring wreaths with crêpe paper flowers and leaves, 10am to 12noon, £5 per family, parents can join in, book via tickets@endelienta.org.uk
25 Mar to 22 Apr
The Magic Box, Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Plymouth, immersive theatre experience for little ones. 07449 724261
31 Mar & 1 Apr Bash Street Theatre’s The Battling Butlers, the tale of real father-and-son double act with fabulous blend of physical theatre, circus skills, original songs & live music, 7.30pm, age 7+. 31 Mar: St Austell Arts Centre. 1 Apr: Maker with Rame Community Hall www.ticketsource.co.uk/
31 Mar to 16 Apr PIRATES! launch of major exhibition & new Skull Island Play Zone, NMMC, Falmouth, fascinating facts & sensory experiences. 1 to 16 Ap: create pirate accessories, pirate-themed trail, FREE with entry, see page 16
1 to 16 Apr
Egg-cellent Easter family fun, Camel Creek, use code BBPEASTER online for £2 off per person, unscramble egg themed challenges on the Easter Egg trail, on 4 & 5 Apr: Meet and Greet mischievous Minions Bob & Stuart. 11 & 12 Apr Meet, Greet and Storytime with beloved Bing Bunny
Percy Pengelly and the Wibble-wobble, Percy’s Big Top, Tremenheere Sculpture Garden, Marazion, Cousin Jack’s BRAND-NEW, high-energy theatre show, 2 & 6pm, see page 13, book: www.minack.com
01736 810181
Easter Egg Hunt, Heartlands, Pool, £2 includes chocolate egg
Adventure Quest, Pendennis Castle (EH) hunt for clues & challenges, win an adventurer’s certificate & chocolate treat, £2 plus entry, traditional Easter games. Save 10% see page 7 www.english-heritage.org.uk
Golden Egg Challenge, Paradise Park, Hayle, complete the quiz and claim chocolate! Use online code BLACKBIRD for £2 off per person, see https://paradisepark.org.uk
Heligan Easter Hunt with a twist, The Lost Gardens, explore the science and magic of roots and shoots, under 5s free, (Heligan Local’s Pass - pay once get in free for a year)
COLOUR! Trebah, Mawnan Smith, vibrant new exhibition and family trail with activities, experience colour in the garden in a new way
Easter bear workshops & farmtastic picnics, Dairyland Farm Park, near Newquay, tractor & pony rides, pat-a-pet sessions, stories & bottle feeding in the haybarn, Bullpen indoor play, Early Bird online offer £10pp Get, Set, Grow! Easter at Eden, challenges & craft workshops £1, Locals’ Pass available from 1 Apr, unlimited entry for a year, www.edenproject.com
National Trust Easter egg hunts, nature activities, & games, £3 +entry, mention BlackbirdPie. Trelissick, book 01872 862090; Cotehele book 01579 351346 press 0; Pentire Wadebridge book 01208 863046; Trerice book 01637 875404; Glendurgan book 01326 252020; Lanhydrock book 01208 265950. 2 to 16 Apr
Trengwainton book 01736 363148; Godolphin book 01736 763194. 4-13 Apr: Antony book 01752 812191
1 to 17 Apr
1 to 22 Apr
Truro City Council’s Easter Trail, Victoria Gardens, free activity for Truro residents, get clues from Truro Library/Visitor Centre, complete trail, submit entries to Pollen in the Park, receive small chocolate egg, prize draw 17 Apr, good luck!
The Art Fund’s Wild Escape, The Box, Plymouth, 1, 2, 4 to 6, 11 to 15 & 22 Apr, free entry & free family drop-in sessions inspired by nomad bees, make headdresses, seed balls, bee homes & puppets
2 to 13 Apr Giants, Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Sunday to Thursday, 3.30pm, John Brolly & Ben Sutcliffe’s riotous reimagining of the terrible giant of St Michael’s Mount, packed full of songs and fun, age 5+, book: page 12
3 to 5 Apr Easter Conservation Club, Seal Sanctuary, Gweek, age 7 to 12, three full days of awesome activities, £120 per child or £45 a day, includes lunch & snacks, book, 01326 221 361/ email education@sealifetrust.com
3 to 6 Apr Dive into the Rabbit Hole, novelEnglish, the Lizard, wonderfully different, educational magical 4-day course, discover Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, residential, with non-residential options, book email enquiries@novelenglish.co.uk www.novelenglish.co.uk
3, 6, 10, 13 Apr Crafty Kids free sessions, The Museum of Cornish Life, 3 & 10 Apr 10am to 12noon, 6 & 13 Apr 1 to 3pm, details on museumofcornishlife.co.uk
3-6, 11-14 COAST Sports & Activities, Hayle, St Ives, Helston, see page 19
3 to 14 Apr Pirate Academy, National Maritime Museum, Falmouth, become a budding buccaneer with Rattlebox Theatre, create pirate accessories, pirate-themed trail, Skull Island play zone, FREE with entry, details page 16 Via Ferrata Adventure Holiday Club, Halvasso, nr Penryn, Cornwall’s most exhilarating childcare, 6 to 13-years, flexible options available, viaferratacornwall.co.uk/holiday-club/
Mini Marine Biologist campaign, The National Lobster Hatchery, South Quay, Padstow interactive activities budding marine biologists, all included with entry & annual passes, 01841 533877
Tate Create Easter - Wild Art Garden, Tate St Ives, create crazy creatures for the wild art garden, 11 to 3pm, mention Blackbird Pie, free (entry free with Locals’ Pass, under 18s free)
Apr
Brilliant for kids’ parties, play groups, schools, fun days!
Tel: 07761 810900
www.marks-ark.co.uk
Bodmin Keep, meet young collectors, soldiers, hands-on history, try uniforms, free activities, annual pass: £9 adult, £5 child, under 5s free, book on www.bodminkeep.org.uk
4 Apr Pop Princesses, Hall for Cornwall, Truro, musical spectacular, 6pm 01872 262466
Easter workshop, The Poly, Falmouth, 11am to 12noon, paint pre-made Easter shapes (eggs, bunnies etc) with assistant potter Mawgan, for age 5+, £6, book on thepoly.org
4, 6, 11, 13
Apr
4 to 13
Apr
5 to 13
Apr
Pop-Up Planet PK, Clore Learning Space, PK Porthcurno, make 3D paper wildflower bouquets, 1 to 3pm, free event & meet Morgy, the giant interactive squid
Easter Holiday family workshops & chocolate egg Spring Trail, Leach Pottery, 4, 5, 11 & 13 Apr 11am: egg cups, salt & pepper pots workshop, all ages, £8. 6 Apr 10 to 11am, 1.45 to 2.45pm: throwing on a potter’s wheel, £8, ages 7 to 11. 8 Apr: fun clay pots, for all ages, drop-in 10am to 12noon, £6 or free for TR26 and TR27 postcodes (bring proof) book on www.leachpottery.com
Marvellous Musicals, Kidz R Us, St Ives Theatre, sparkling evening of performances from Kidz productions past and present.... 01736 797007
6 & 13 Apr Easter holiday Thursday workshops, Penlee House, Penzance. 1.30 to 4pm - 6 Apr: pop-up Easter cards; 13 Apr: paper plate birds, 01736 363625
6 to 12 Apr
Swamp Circus Camp! Chyan Cultural Centre, near Penryn, weekend camping or day passes 10am to 3.30pm, full range of circus skills, for beginners & circus fanatics. age 8yrs+, Free for benefits/low incomes, book www.ticketsource.co.uk/swamp-circus 07775 857677
7 Apr Easter Rockpool Ramble, Coastguard Station, Hannafore Beach, West Looe, join local experts, 1 to 2.15pm, free but donations welcome, book 07539 530020 looemcg.events@gmail.com
8 Apr Tales from the Trees, Squashbox Theatre at Heartlands, Pool, 2pm, puppetry, storytelling, live music & comedy, natural history theme, age 4+. www.heartlandscornwall.com
8 & 9 Apr Easter Eggspress Trains! B & W Railway, Bodmin, hunt egg letters on the Easter trail, mention BlackbirdPie
9 to 11 Apr
Dinosaur World Live, Theatre Royal Plymouth, a roarsome interactive show for age 3+, special meet & greet dinosaurs after the show, 01752 267222
10 & 12 Apr Easter Mini PK tours, PK Porthcurno, find out about telegraphy, play Morse Code race game, free with entry, tours between 12 & 2pm
11 Apr Hayle Heritage Centre reopens with free family activities, drop-in Easter craft activities all day, sensory activities by the Millpond & sensory storytelling performances, 01736 757683 Knightly Weapons of The Round Table, The Poly, Falmouth, 11am to 12noon, with King Arthur’s Master at Arms, see Easter eggs smashed & cantaloupe bashed, for ages 5+, £6, book on thepoly.org
11 to 14 Apr
12, 13, 19,
26, 27 Apr
3, 4, 10, 11 May
14 Apr
14, 17, 18,
23, 25, 27
15 Apr
15 & 16 Apr
Escape into Literature, novelEnglish, the Lizard, with Anne of Green Gables, wonderfully different, educational magical 4-day course, see 3 to 6 Apr
Cornwall Beaver Project guided walks, Woodland Valley Farm, Ladock, join farmer Chris Jones & Cornwall Wildlife Trust. Beavers are ecosystem engineers! See their dams & the first lodge in Cornwall in over 400 years, 7.30 to 9.30pm, for age 8+, book on 01872 273939, email beaverproject@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk
Perforated lantern-making workshop, Hayle Heritage Centre, using pattern-making techniques, for all ages, 11am to 3.30pm, details on hayleheritagecentre.org.uk, or 01736 757683
Eggstravaganza parties! Messy Easter fun with Mess Around, egg rolling, gloopy ducks, bunny tails, & spaghetti bird nests. Probus, Bodmin, Shortlanesend, St Newlyn East, Wadebridge, Par, details page 16
The Story of the Treasure Seekers, novelEnglish, the Lizard, magical one-day course, embark on the greatest treasure hunt, see 3 to 6 Apr
The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Regal Theatre, Redruth, Olivier Award-nominated, smash hit, delightful family show with sing-a-long songs, for age 3+. 01209 216278
Science Adventures: Deep Sea, Coppice Theatre, fantastical show exploring the importance of protecting our coast and oceans with puppets, animation & storytelling, age 5+., 15 Apr: Kresen Kernow, Redruth, free show.
16 Apr: The Acorn, Penzance
18 Apr Toddle Tate, Tate St Ives, 10.30am, to 12.30pm, session for under 5s, stack, sculpt & create in the sculpture studio for tiny artists, £1 adult admission (free with Locals’ Pass), mention BlackbirdPie
21 to 23 Porthleven Food Festival, free, chef demos, music, family field, children’s workshops, mention BlackbirdPie
Re-opens on 11 April with sensory story performances and Easter craft workshops. Try the new sensory trail of Hayle and play with our activity packs. 14 April: lanternmaking workshops
All free facebook
@hayleheritagecentre John Harvey House, 24 Foundry Square, Hayle
www.hayleheritagecentre.org.uk
22 & 28
Apr Bash Street Theatre’s The Battling Butlers, details 31 Mar. 22 Apr 7.30pm: Praa Sands Community Centre.
28 Apr 7.30pm: CaVE, Callington Town Hall www.ticketsource.co.uk/
25 Apr Dreamcoat Stars, Regal Theatre, Redruth, West End & Broadway classics with stars from Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 01209 216278
29 Apr Endelienta Arts Make Club & Coppice show, St Endellion Hall, make Calder-inspired, beach-plastic, fish mobiles, 10am to 12noon, £5 per family, parents can join in, then 2pm, enjoy Coppice Theatre’s brilliant family show Science Adventures: Deep Sea. book via tickets@endelienta.org.uk
29 & 30 Apr
13 May
13 & 14 May
15 to 17 May
Alfie’s First Fight, Oliver Sykes’ funny, heart-warming show for age 5+, with boxing, surprising plot twists, & an inspiring boy hero. 29 Apr 6.30pm: Gwealan Tops Community Centre, Redruth. 30 Apr, 2pm: Launceston Town Hall, www.ticketsource.co.uk 01209 312500
Sing-A-Long-A Encanto, Hall for Cornwall, Truro, the smash-hit Family Madrigal musical film with lyrics on screen; fancy dress and audience participation, 01872 262466
Dino-Saw, Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth, 11am, join baby Dino on an adventure and meet dinosaurs BIG and small, captivating show for under 8s, also on 27 & 28 May, 8 to 10 June, stiltskin.org.uk 07449 724261
Zog, Theatre Royal Plymouth, smash-hit adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s book with lively songs, for all ages 01752 267222
From 18 May Tree, Cscape’s Imaginarium, touring venues in Cornwall, multi-sensory, live theatre adventure & interactive activities for little ones www.cscape.org.uk
20 & 21 May
Spellbound Fairy & Goblin Festival, Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth (Early Bird tickets available) 11am to 4pm, storytelling performances, theatre, arts & crafts. stiltskin.org.uk 07449 724261
Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance FREE drop-in
family art & craft activities every Saturday 2.30-3.30pm
Easter workshops:
Thursday 6 April 1.30 – 4pm
Pop-up Easter Cards
Saturday 8 April 2.30 – 3.30
Making Waves (pop-up boats)
Thursday 13 April 1.30 – 4pm
Paper Plate Birds
www.penleehouse.org.uk and social media
Mabe Community Hall, tickets from Mabe shop
23 to 25 March, 7pm & matinee 1.30pm Sat: The Emperor of Mabe’s New Clothes
Epworth Hall, Helston www.crbo.co.uk 01726 63513
24 & 25 Mar: ACT 1 Youth Theatre’s Alice - The Musical based on Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic Alice in Wonderland, with high energy, catchy songs.
Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth. stiltskin.org.uk 07449 724261
25 Mar to 22 Apr: The Magic Box - an immersive theatre experience for little ones.
13 & 14, 27 & 28 May, 8 to 10 June, 11am: Dino-Saw, join baby Dino on an adventure and meet dinosaurs BIG and small. A captivating theatre show for under 8s.
20 & 21 May 11am to 4pm: Spellbound Fairy & Goblin Festival (Early Bird tickets available) with storytelling performances, theatre, arts and crafts. Come dressed to impress in your best fairy and goblin outfits, adults and children alike! Most activities are under cover.
Kidz R Us, St Ives Theatre, kidzrus.net 01736 797007
5 to 13 Apr: Marvelous Musicals, celebrate the best in musical theatre with a sparkling evening of performances from Kidz productions past and present....
Heartlands, Pool. 01209 707300 www.heartlandscornwall.com
8 Apr at 2pm: Squashbox Theatre’s Tales from the Trees is a terrific tangle of puppetry, storytelling, live music and comedy, with a theme that embraces natural history, folklore and ecology, for children aged 4+ and their families.
Regal Theatre, Redruth. 01209 216278
All tickets at www.regaltheatre-redruth.co.uk
15 & 16 Apr: The Tiger Who Came To Tea. Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award-nominated, smash hit, delightful family show. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of Judith Kerr’s classic tale of teatime mayhem...the tea-guzzling tiger, oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! for age 3+.
25 Apr: Dreamcoat Stars, featuring stars from the hit production Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, in a musical evening of West End and Broadway classics - Jesus Christ Superstar, SIX, Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, Les Misérables, Moulin Rouge and more. Sing along and relive favourite musicals in one epic show.
28 May at 4pm: Woman Like Me: The Little Mix Show is an exciting high-energy pop concert based on the biggest hits from award-winning girl band Little Mix; Kids, tweens, teens, and adults alike, will be singing and dancing to chart-topping hits including Black Magic, Power, Shoutout to My Ex and Woman Like Me.
Theatre Shows - continues on page
1 to 16 Apr at 2 & 6pm & relaxed performances weekends at 11.30am: Percy Pengelly and the Wibble-wobble.
Roll up! Roll up! Roll up… ladies and gentlemen it’s time to join the fantastical Percy Pengelly in his more than marvellous Cornish big top for Cousin Jack’s BRAND-NEW, high-energy theatre show! Wibble wobble with Percy as he searches for a new job - from world-famous tightrope walker… super dooper pooper scooper…to the giddy heights of rooftops. The show is based on the wonderful book by Cadgwith-based author Jenny Steele Scolding, illustrated by Andy McPherson.
We love Cousin Jack’s shows - from Dandy Lion - their beautiful puppetry show at Trebah Garden about a unique lion cub (picture below) - to their highly acclaimed adaptation of The Mousehole Cat which celebrated its seventh consecutive year last Christmas. They work hard to cater to families on all budgets, offering flexible ticketing from £12. The free ticket draw scheme gives away hundreds of tickets to families who can’t afford them (see website).
You can pre-book delicious food from the Tremenheere Kitchen for before or after the show. Garden entry is discounted with your Percy ticket. Parking is free. Book your tickets on Cousin Jack’s website www.cousinjacks.org or via The Minack box office 01736 810181; including details on relaxed performances, accessibility and buses from Penzance to Tremenheere.
https://www.facebook.com/activepartycornwall
https://www.instagram.com/activepartycornwall/ https://www.tiktok.com/@activeparty.co.uk
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Minack Theatre (open air), Porthcurno. minack.com 01736 810181
2 to 13 Apr 3.30pm, Sunday to Thursday:
Storyteller John Brolly and composer & musician Ben Sutcliffe have teamed up to create Giants, a riotous reimagining of the legend of Cormoran, the terrible giant of St Michael’s Mount, packed full of songs and fun. In the small town of Marazion there’s a very, very big problem. The village is in turmoil – trying to prepare for the mayor’s 50th anniversary and coping with two huge giants who have moved into the neighbourhood to improve their social status. Could Jack be the hero they need and take on two giants single-handed? Find out this Easter! booking essential, perfect for age 5+.
Hall for Cornwall, Truro. hallforcornwall.co.uk 01872 262466
4 Apr 6pm: Pop Princesses. A musical spectacular starring four fairy tale princesses who just love to sing! Featuring top pop hits & hit songs from films & musicals.
13 May: Sing-A-Long-A Encanto, the smash hit musical film of 2021 about the Family Madrigal with lyrics on screen; fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential.
Theatre Royal Plymouth, 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com
9 to 11 Apr: Dinosaur World Live, a roarsome interactive show for age 3+. Join an intrepid explorer to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs including flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex! There is a special meet & greet dinosaurs after the show.
15 to 17 May: Freckle Productions’ smash-hit stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog. For all ages and with lively songs.
Bash Street Theatre on tour with The Battling Butlers https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ 01209 312500
A fabulous blend of physical theatre, circus skills, original songs and live music. Juggling babies, toddlers on stilts and teaching your kid to ride a unicycle… everyday life for showman, Joe Butler! This family love story relishes the ever-changing relationship of a real father-and-son double act. For age 7+. 31 Mar 7.30pm: St Austell Arts Centre, 01726 63513. 1 Apr 7.30pm: Maker with Rame Community Hall. 22 Apr 7.30pm: Praa Sands Community Centre. 28 Apr 7.30pm: CaVE, Callington Town Hall
Coppice Theatre present Science Adventures: Deep Sea
This April, head to the bottom of the sea with Coppice Theatre for an aquatic adventure! Using puppetry, animation and storytelling, this fantastical show explores the importance of protecting our coast and oceans, and fosters a love of science and literature. A brand-new show for ages 5+. 15 Apr: Kresen Kernow, Redruth, FREE SHOW. 16 Apr: The Acorn, Penzance. 29 Apr: Endelienta, St Endellion Hall. 27 May: The Burrell Theatre, Truro. 28 May: The Poly, Falmouth. 17 June: Penlee Park, Penzance. 18 June: St Day Open-air Church. 24 June: Helston Museum. Tickets: coppicetheatre.co.uk
Oliver Sykes UK tour of Alfie’s First Fight a funny and heart-warming show for age 5+, featuring boxing, surprising plot twists, compelling characters and an inspiring boy hero. Written and performed by Oliver Sykes, based on his experiences growing up without a mum and being coached as an amateur boxer by his dad. www.ticketsource.co.uk 01209 312500. 29 Apr 6.30pm: Gwealan Tops Community Ctr, Redruth . 30 Apr, 2pm: Launceston Town Hall.
Cscape’s Imaginarium will be touring venues in Cornwall from 18 May through the summer with Tree, a multi-sensory, live theatre adventure for little ones. Based on Britta Teckentrup and Patricia Hegarty’s illustrated children’s book, Tree combines dance performance, storytelling, design, music and interactive activities. www.cscape.org.uk
All aboard to join the pirate crew this Easter! Become a budding buccaneer at Rattlebox Theatre’s Pirate Academy, (Mondays to Fridays, 3 to 14 April) and from 1 to 16 April, create the necessary pirate accessories in Make & Take, then join the Museum trail.
Become a pirate for the day at Skull Island Play Zone and hoist the Jolly Roger to stake your claim.
All FREE as part of the Museum’s annual admission fee. Pay once and get in free for a year.
PIRATES Major new exhibition opens 31 March 2023
Dashing and daring or bloodthirsty and greedy – were pirates of the 18th century heroes of the age or nothing more than callous cut-throats? Despite the often-brutal reality, they are portrayed in fiction, film, art and fashion as symbols of freedom, adventure and transgression.
PIRATES invites you to jump on board and uncover how robbers became unlikely folk heroes. Filled with fascinating facts and sensory experiences, this major exhibition dives beneath the surface to uncover the timber-shivering truth.
Spanning from the 17th century to the present day, the show features an immersive experience of the Sea of Thieves game, (specially created for NMMC by Microsoft development studio, Rare) and a rich array of costumes, weapons, globes, maps, telescopes, film posters and illustrations.
Tiny Toes Ballet (above) is the only dance programme in the UK that is fully integrated with the EYFS curriculum promoting ‘learning through dance’. They offer free taster classes for wobbly walkers to 7-year-old children, so do try an award-winning children’s ballet class which includes fun, learning, storytime and so much dancing! There are classes across Cornwall and Devon - see www.tinytoesballet.co.uk
Raze the Roof, Penryn, entertains all the family in one place with soft play, Virtual Reality and Laser Tag. Parents are welcome to play with their children in the play frame, whilst older children and parents can get immersed in VR and Laser Tag - entertainment for the whole family this Easter! Plus there are budget-busting birthday parties and weekday play & meal deals. Book at razetheroof.co.uk, in person, or scan the QR code on page 10.
Jungle Jack’s, Newquay let your little monkeys run wild on 1,700 square feet of challenging climbs, rope bridge, astra-glide slide, crafty crawl tubes and a baby and toddler area. Book online & use discount code BBP01OFF for £1 off, www.junglejacks.co.uk. Free play & entry for under 1s, adult entry just £1.50. Six month limitless entry pass just £60 per child (& covers the summer holidays). 01637 852890 or email info@junglejacks.co.uk
Molly Music, high-quality music & movement classes for little ones in St Austell & Truro. Singing, playing, dancing, with colourful props, musical instruments, puppets and bubbles! Free trial 07775 446254
The JungleBarn, Paradise Park, Hayle (book Park & JungleBarn tickets) huge play centre with giant slides, challenging soft play and toddlers’ zone - see page 7.
Mess Around Cornwall Eggstravaganza parties! Messy Easter fun with egg rolling, Easter rice and feathers. Explore nature with gloopy ducks, bunny tails, and spaghetti bird nests. Post-fun wash area provided. 14 Apr Probus, 17 Apr Bodmin, 18 Apr Shortlanesend, 23 Apr St Newlyn East, 25 Apr Wadebridge, 27 Apr Par. 07590 549097 cornwall@messarounduk.com
The Bull Pen, Dairyland’s indoor soft play area with superfast slides, a brilliant ball pit and colourful jump zones. Perfect for parties. dairylandfarmpark.com
Discovering 42 Reimagining Reality at Narisa Hall, Bodmin, Amazing hands-on science workshops and interactive science exhibition with artworks crafted from waste materials. Workshop clips on FB: @discovering42 Insta: @discovering_42
Wheal Play, Heartlands, Pool. Bright and colourful mining-themed soft play centre. Open Monday to Sunday. Child £4.95 adults £1, local’s discount for TR postcodes. Great fun parties, choose from soft play, bouncy castles, disco & archery. 01209 707308 E: whealplay@heartlandscornwall.com
Indoor Base Camp, Gwel an Mor, Portreath. exhilarating soft play: zip lines, ball pools, slides & toddler area, & 10 themed Clip’n’Climb walls, book on 01209 844164.
Classic Tales – with a Twist by Deborah Wright
Franklin and Luna and the Book of Fairy Tales by Jen Campbell, illustrated by Katie Harnett published Thames and Hudson
Franklin the dragon and his friend Luna find themselves falling into the pages of a book in search of Neil the tortoise. They encounter characters from fairy tales along the way: Three Pigs, Jack, Cinderella and many more as they look for Neil. Unusual illustrations with staring eyes enhance this cheerful tale. For 4+
Classic Fairy Tales by Berlie Doherty, illustrated by Jane Ray published by Walker
If you’re looking for a traditional collection of fairy tales, this is the perfect edition. Twelve classics beautifully retold by Berlie Doherty and illustrated with the most magical pictures by Jane Ray. Each page is a visual delight. First published over twenty years ago, but reprinted since, every child should own this stunning book. For 4+
Creeping Beauty by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Freya Hartas published by Walker
The latest in the Fairy Tales Gone Bad series (which tells it all). Classic tales reinterpreted with a twist and embellished with Hartas’ drawings on every page. For 7+
The Sister Who Ate Her Brothers (and other gruesome tales) by Jen Campbell, illustrated by Adam de Souza published by Thames and Hudson
Fourteen gruesome tales from around the world, guaranteed to scare and delight, and not a happy ending in sight. Perfect to read aloud on a dark night when the wind is howling. Sinister illustrations with rats and bats, ghosts and trolls, and wolves with yellow eyes. For 7+
Loki: a Bad God’s Guide to Being Good written and illustrated by Louie Stowell published by Walker
In Viking mythology, Loki is the mischievous god who is always causing trouble. In his ‘diary’, covered in cartoons and doodles, he has been banished by Odin to live as an 11-year old schoolboy. Thor is still tormenting him and the school playground is a nightmare. Lots of bad jokes and schoolboy humour. For 8+
The Wolf-Girl, the Greeks and the Gods: a tale of the Persian Wars by Tom Holland, illustrated by Jason Cockcroft published by Walker
I salute Walker for publishing this beautifully produced and illustrated book, written by an eminent historian. A stirring retelling, full of battles, warring kings and vengeful gods, with myth and ancient history skillfully interwoven. Jason Cockcroft studied illustration at Falmouth and his black and white artwork with dramatic red or blue backgrounds add to the drama and menace. It’s not cheap, but would make a wonderful present. For 9+
What vaccinations are my children due? They are in years 9 & 10.
Should I expect anything else?
My children had some vaccines when they were babies. Is Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio a booster for this?
Is this three injections?
What about the Meningitis ACWY?
Is this the same as MMR?
Is it a different vaccine to the Meningitis C?
Can you tell me more?
Your children would be eligible for Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio and the Meningitis ACWY vaccines.
In addition, they would also be eligible for the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine (HPV) if they haven’t had this already.
Yes. It will be the final dose.
No. It is a three-in-one, so one injection.
MMR is not the same as Meningitis ACWY.
It is a vaccine which gives a boost to the Meningitis C but also protects against the A, W and Y strains of Meningitis.
This additional protection is due to an increase in the W strain in particular.
So…are these another name for the BCG; the one with the six needles? No. The BCG is no longer routinely given.
Are these vaccines ‘live’?
Is it safe for all these vaccines to be given at the same time?
Does one consent form cover all vaccines?
What about the others?
I can’t remember when my children last had their vaccines or which ones they had! Can you help?
My internet is rubbish!
How can I give consent?
No. None of these vaccines are live at all.
Yes, it is safe and routinely given together.
Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio and Meningitis ACWY are all on the same consent form.
You would need to complete a different one for HPV and any other vaccines administered
Yes, we can help. If you’re not sure, please call us on 01872 221105 and we’ll be more than happy to help and advise you.
You can call us on 01872 221105 and we can complete the form(s) with the you over the phone. It will only take about 5 minutes.