How to plan a day at the Eden Project near St Austell from our campsite near Boscastle, with tips on tickets, timing and what to see.
The Eden Project is one of Cornwall's most famous attractions. Built in a former china clay pit near St Austell, its giant domed Biomes house plants from around the world, surrounded by outdoor gardens. It's a full day out, and a great choice when the weather on the north coast is grey. Here's how to plan a visit from our campsite near Boscastle.
Where is the Eden Project?
The Eden Project is at Bodelva, near St Austell, on the south side of Cornwall. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, it's roughly 35 miles by road, and the drive usually takes around an hour, via Camelford and Bodmin. Allow longer in summer traffic.
What is the Eden Project?
Eden opened in 2001 in a disused clay pit. It's an educational charity, and its aim is to show how people depend on plants and how we can look after the natural world. The site is famous for its Biomes, huge greenhouse domes made from hexagonal panels.
The Rainforest Biome
The Rainforest Biome is one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world. Inside, you follow a winding path past tropical plants, waterfalls and crops such as bananas, coffee and cocoa. It's warm and humid, so wear layers you can take off. There's often a viewing platform high in the canopy, if you're happy with heights.
The Mediterranean Biome
The Mediterranean Biome is cooler and drier, with plants from the Mediterranean, South Africa, California and Western Australia. Look out for olive trees, citrus, vines and colourful flowers.
The outdoor gardens
The outdoor gardens cover the slopes of the old pit, with plants that grow in Cornwall's temperate climate, including crops, wildflowers and sculptures. They're lovely in spring and summer.
Other things to do
Eden often has exhibitions, seasonal events and activities. There's also a zip wire and other adventure activities, run separately and booked in advance. Check what's on before you go.
Tickets
Tickets are often cheaper when booked online in advance. Prices and opening hours vary through the year, so check the Eden Project website before you travel. Some tickets may include return visits within a set period.
Food and drink
There are several cafés and restaurants on site, serving lunches, snacks and drinks. You can also bring a picnic to enjoy outdoors.
With kids
Eden is great for families. Children love the waterfalls in the Rainforest Biome, the giant plants and the play areas. Look out for trails, activities and events in the school holidays. See our camping with kids guide.
With dogs
Dogs are not usually allowed inside the Biomes, apart from assistance dogs. Check the latest rules before you go. If you're travelling with a dog, plan to leave it with someone or choose a different outing. Read our camping with dogs guide.
Accessibility
The site is built on steep slopes, but there are paths and a land train to help visitors get around. Check accessibility information on the Eden Project website.
A rainy day choice
Eden is one of the best options in Cornwall for a wet day, as the Biomes are under cover. Expect it to be busy on rainy days in summer, so arrive early. See our rainy day ideas.
A day plan
- Leave the campsite early, around 8.30am.
- Arrive at Eden when it opens.
- Head to the Rainforest Biome first, before it gets busy.
- Have lunch at one of the cafés or a picnic outside.
- Explore the Mediterranean Biome and the outdoor gardens.
- Drive back to the campsite in the late afternoon.
What to bring
- Layers you can take off in the Rainforest Biome.
- Comfortable shoes, as the site is hilly.
- Water and snacks.
- Waterproofs for the outdoor gardens.
- Your tickets, booked in advance.
Parking
There's large car parking at Eden, with a park-and-ride service from the car parks to the entrance. Check parking charges before you go.
Combine with nearby places
- Lanhydrock: on the way, near Bodmin. See our Lanhydrock guide.
- Bodmin Moor: on the way home. See our Bodmin Moor guide.
Is it worth the drive from Boscastle?
Yes, if you want a big, memorable day out, especially on a rainy day. It's around an hour each way, so plan a full day and keep the next day for something closer to home, such as the coast path or Boscastle harbour.
Staying nearby
Our farm campsite near Boscastle is a quiet base for days out across Cornwall. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. Read our North Cornwall day trips guide.
Frequently asked questions
How far is the Eden Project from Boscastle?
Roughly 35 miles from our campsite, usually around an hour by car.
Is the Eden Project good on a rainy day?
Yes. The Biomes are under cover, but it can be busy on wet days.
Should I book Eden Project tickets in advance?
Yes. Tickets are often cheaper online, and booking ahead saves time.
Are dogs allowed at the Eden Project?
Not usually inside the Biomes, except assistance dogs. Check before you go.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
