The Eden Project is one of Cornwall's best-known attractions: a set of giant, bubble-like greenhouses set in a former china clay pit near St Austell, filled with plants from around the world. Opened in 2001, it was built to show how people depend on plants and how we can live more sustainably. It makes a brilliant day out for all ages, whatever the weather.
Getting there and parking
Eden is near the village of Bodelva, a few miles east of St Austell, and is well signposted from the A30 and A390. There are large car parks on site, with a land train or a walk down to the visitor centre. Eden encourages greener travel, and there are buses from St Austell, which has a mainline railway station. Check Eden's website for current travel options and any discount for arriving without a car.
Tickets
Tickets are cheaper when booked online in advance. Eden has offered annual passes in the past, and many local residents and repeat visitors find them good value. Check the website for current prices, opening hours and any seasonal events, which can affect times.
The Rainforest Biome
The largest of the biomes houses one of the biggest indoor rainforests in the world, with plants from South America, West Africa, South East Asia and the tropical islands. A path winds up through the greenery past a waterfall, and there is a canopy walkway and viewing platform high up in the dome. It is hot and humid inside, so dress in layers you can remove, and bring water.
The Mediterranean Biome
The smaller biome recreates the warm, dry landscapes of the Mediterranean, South Africa, California and Western Australia. Expect olive groves, vines, citrus trees and colourful flowers. It is calmer and cooler than the rainforest, and a good place to slow down.
The Outdoor Gardens
Between the biomes and the rim of the pit, terraced outdoor gardens show plants that grow in Cornwall's temperate climate, from crops and wildflowers to plants used for fuel and medicine. The gardens change with the seasons, and are at their most colourful in spring and summer.
The Core and other things to see
The Core is an education building with exhibitions and art. Look out for the large sculptures dotted around the site, and check the daily programme for talks and activities. In some years Eden has had a zip wire and other adventure activities on or near the site, run separately with their own charges. Check what is available before you go.
Events through the year
Eden hosts a busy programme of events, including the Eden Sessions concerts, held in summer in the arena in front of the biomes, and seasonal events at Christmas. These are popular and tickets sell quickly, so book early if you want to go.
Food and facilities
There are several cafés and restaurants on site, with a focus on local and seasonal produce, plus picnic areas. Toilets, baby-changing and shops are available throughout. Paths are accessible for wheelchairs and buggies, though the site is on a slope, and the land train helps with the steeper sections.
Good to know
- Allow at least four or five hours. Many people spend the whole day.
- Arriving early helps avoid the busiest times, especially on wet days in the holidays.
- Assistance dogs are welcome. Check Eden's website for its policy on other dogs.
- Combine your visit with the nearby harbours of Charlestown or Fowey.
Photos: The Eden Project biomes by Ian Capper, CC BY-SA 2.0; The Rainforest Biome by Chris Gorringe, CC BY-SA 2.0; via Wikimedia Commons.
