Mid Cornwall Mining, past & present; Green Construction & Power; Nature & Habitats; Stories & Creative Arts: –
Welcome to The Meadow Barns, in Cornwall, home of Caroline Stephenson – author, teacher and musician.
Here she shares her passion for Climate Hope, her stories of Mining History and – best of all – her great big garden of displays, play areas and gorgeous views.
News for Autumn Term 2024
For the first time we are now in a partnership with the best mining brains of Cornwall. It is all part of the “Geo-Resources” Sector Strengthening project, led by the University of Exeter:-
This project is funded (£960k) by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Cornwall Council has been chosen by Government as a Lead Authority for the fund and is responsible for monitoring the progress of projects funded though the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Our role has been to work with very young children, along with the adults who support them at a pre-school, nursery or simply as parents or grandparents. It is a hands-on outdoor style of learning that is very different from school and we have always found participants love it.
“It felt more creative, and like I could do what I wanted to do. It wasn’t ever boring”
“It was more special than school, because I had my family learning with me”
Further details. The half term pilot, supported by Choose Nature CIC and the Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum in their grounds and neighbouring woodland, is almost complete. There could be one or 2 spaces for families at the final session on Sat November 9th. Call please to find availability. 07967 653346
https://www.choose-nature.co.uk wheal-martyn.com.
We are very grateful for this opportunity, which has greatly enhanced the sessions. For example, we have been exploring the real Wheal Martyn waterwheel and their Boulder Park, featuring a number of large granites holding Lithium in different combinations with other metals. What a fun activity it has proved to be!
More ‘Joining In’ Story Events
To conclude on Saturday 9th we also will tell you how and why the famous author, Charles Dickens, visited our mines and other famous Cornish landmarks, and featured them in his much-loved book, ‘A Christmas Carol’ of 1843. There will be an indoors event on Saturday 23rd November, to share this story with the world, in the beautiful setting of Lanlivery Parish Church. Thank you to the community for welcoming us and providing imitation Goose flavoured, but veggie biscuits and mini Christmas puds!
Apply to take part
Along with dressing up, we offer lots of other opportunities to join or enhance a Story Event. You might opt, on your own or with your family, to be in the team of readers or narrators. You might love movement and be able join in singing. You might, if time allows in advance, produce artwork or costumes. All of these are needed, and more. We are currently designing an application form, it will be here shortly! We just need you to fill in a few boxes, and submit by the deadline of Wednesday 5 pm 20th November.
If you can’t wait, please email cjs@themeadowbarns.co.uk.
On the Saturday we will meet at Lanlivery in the church at 4.45 pm for max one hour of preparation. Then the audience settles down, we move to our positions and the lights dim for 6 pm.
PREVIOUS MINING WALKS and PLAY SESSIONS at Meadow Barns
Traditionally every visit has included a short introduction of maps and films in the library, a walk-about the mining and water areas of the outdoor Adventure Site, an accompanied first part of walk to Penpell Mine, plus option to borrow a story-based guide book and explore the neighbouring, hidden & secret east side of Luxulyan Valley, at leisure.
Those who had WhatsApp on their phone were provided with a back-up SOS service, to ensure they didn’t get lost. Also, for peace of mind – in the event of a mishap – a qualified first-aider was available, coming to the rescue. Further information on past walks is found here https://themeadowbarns.co.uk/walks/
We have a great collection of rocks to dig for and crush, trucks on tram-tracks for moving the ore and – most important – water wheels that provide the power. These are lessons from 200 years ago, which suddenly are extremely relevant as we aim to reach Net Zero. It informs our mission statement … ‘to help people learn from the past, and build a greener future!’
To book please email your enquiry@themeadowbarns.co.uk
PREVIOUS HALF TERMS 4 CLIMATE HOPE
This brand new concept came together in 2023, with the first ever Ceremony 4 Climate Hope being planned and delivered for our local Red Moor school. It was a brilliant start in Lanlivery, which we used as a spring board, learning what would deliver the best outcomes for our volunteers and small communities in future.
The 2nd harvest-related October event in Lostwithiel involved around 70 people and many local businesses in the run up, although the Ceremony itself was quite small. It was a big, ambitious and wonderful project! So, with the arrival of 2024 we began to plan for our next, which was even bigger and better!
A Ceremony that celebrated CHINESE NEW YEAR in TRURO
To appreciate more of what we offer, please see the films on our YouTube channel. There is a Climate Hope playlist, look especially for the Westcountry TV report of Chinese New Year; and a playlist with history stories and local views in it. Also, you can follow the evolution of each project and Ceremony by signing up to the weekly Green Fridays Blog, which you will find under Climate Hope.
Go to the Meadow Barns YouTube Channel
For volunteering, paying a visit, joining a walk or any other query, please EMAIL our Director, Caroline Stephenson – cjs@themeadowbarns.co.uk
And if you would like help with History or Climate work in a school, just ask! We are now planning a course for teachers, ready for the Autumn Term.
Where to find us and a little more about the Adventure site
You will find us perched high on ‘Penpillick Hill’ a few miles north of its famous big cousin, the Eden Project, where you can enjoy ever-changing, beautiful views of St Austell Bay, some of which are shared in the slider above.
Coming by car, you will find Directions under About Us/Contact. But remember also, to save money on your booking and reduce local congestion, you could come by public transport and we are always happy to advise and support, if you do.
The buildings were consciously planned and the site landscaped to showcase innovative, often recycled materials and to illustrate a range of sustainable energy systems. Read the story of the construction phase (2017 – 2019) under Climate Hope/Green Build.
Joseph Austen Treffry – our Green Hero and inspiration
Read more about this extraordinary mining entrepreneur under Climate Hope/Green Hero.
WORDS from a past visitor, on their family water wheels STORY WALK ADVENTURE, 2021:-
A totally unique experience. Caroline’s attention to detail and passion make this a truly lovely adventure. Hot pasties and hot chocolate were waiting for us on our return, accompanied by a glimpse into history with Caroline’s amazing storytelling skills. The walk itself – even being lost for a little time – was totally awe inspiring. We both loved every minute and if there was an annual Pass to Meadow Barns we’d definitely get one. One day was definitely not enough and we will return!
Finally, those practical things that real matter e.g. 1) HEALTH and SAFETY
The site is fully insured, with additional cover for Caroline as an approved official valley guide and recently qualified outdoor first-aider. Each walk is subject to a separate risk assessment, conducted within the past week, and available along with a first aid guidance page, at the start.
To ensure maximum comfort and safety, please tell us your interests, fitness & budget, plus food choices and preferred length of walk in advance, so the team can create the most suitable bespoke plan.
2) FOOD & DRINK
Always pre-ordered and matched to your individual needs. Or you may choose to bring your own.
MORE COMMENTS
A magical day out with a wonderful guide and host. Our 4 year old had a brilliant time! David Morgan
Fascinating to gain this understanding of
renewable energy and see such positive steps towards a sustainable future. Amanda Penk
This is our 3rd visit! The centre is a favourite place for us, where we can help our grand children learn so much – history, fitness & how to be responsible green citizens. Roger Larham
Stuart Hunkin, Tywardreath Methodist Church
Erasmia & Isabella (lost in the woods)
Jonathan & Sarah Treffry
So pleased that you want to inform people about Joseph Thomas Austen Treffry
Sir Tim Smit
At Meadow Barns you are perfectly placed to tell the story, paint the BIG picture! “