The Eden Project

The Eden Project is one of Cornwall’s biggest attractions and internationally renowned for its indoor rainforest biomes. With a firm focus on sustainable living, horticulture and nature The Eden Project is a wonderful place to learn about exotic species of plants and experience a small portion of the amazon rainforest right here in Cornwall. 

How it all started

The Eden Project is the brain child of Tim Smit who having completed the restoration of the Gardens of Heligan was looking for something big to sink his teeth into. The first rough designs were drawn up on a napkin in the local pub whilst Tim was attempting to explain his vision to an architect. Because of the huge amount of ground to be covered it was decided that the structure should resemble the huge iconic bubbles we now know so well. 

The build didn’t get off to a great start; it rained constantly for the first few months flooding the build site, a huge former china clay pit. However, once the proper drainage has been built, the project started moving forwards until it became the famous venue we know today.

The Highlights

There are lots of things to see and do at the Eden Project. The rainforest biome is the most popular planted biome with a fantastic canopy walk up among the tree tops. Make sure you check out the 3.3 tonne ‘Wee Man’ sculpture, a huge human form built entirely from waste materials. Shockingly, the weight of the sculpture is based on the amount of waste the average household generates in one year. Other notable sculptures are the giant bee sitting near the entrance and the rites of Dionysus in the Mediterranean section. 

Another great highlight is the Eden zip wire ride. Fly over the biomes ‘superman style’ on England’s fastest and longest zip wire. The top speed is reputed to be 60mph! If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie why not try the gravity swing, a giant swing situated 65ft over a cliff edge.  

Thing’s for the Kids

The Eden project has easy access for wheelchairs, buggies and dogs on a lead. So if you’re taking your family to visit rest assured the attraction is accessible. The Eden Project has plenty of things for youngsters to do. Download the Discovery Trail and explore the Outdoor Biome to see if your kids can spot everything on the list!