eden project trip

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A guide to the eden project, cornwall.

Places to visit Monday 11th September 2023

Where else in Cornwall  can you walk for less than a minute and go from a humid Amazonian jungle to the cool and sloping hills of the Mediterranean? In this, and many other aspects, the Eden Project is a truly unique and unmissable experience and it’s right here in Cornwall.

With incredible floral displays, hidden statues, interactive displays and some fantastic cafes and restaurants, the Eden Project really does have something for everyone, making it a great day out for the whole family . 

You can easily spend a day wandering around the 30 acres of colourful displays and other-worldly corners so when we say that the Eden Project is a fun day out for the whole family, we really mean it. 

Getting to the Eden Project could not be easier with access by bike, on foot, public transport or car available. If you arrive by bike and don’t want to lug your kit around, you can store it in the Eden Project’s handy lockers that are located at the Banana car park and visitor centre. 

Find out more

Outside gardens & biomes, food and drink, things to do, accessibility.

Starting off as a deteriorated clay pit set 60 metres into the Cornish earth, nowhere in Cornwall has seen a more incredible transformation than the Eden Project, and it’s all thanks to a group of dedicated people who wanted to say “I’m glad I did” rather than “I wish I had”. 

The concept of the Eden Project was created in a pub in 1996 when initial designs were scrawled on some napkins. Eventually the idea of creating giant bubbles formed. This design was chosen due to the structure of bubbles as they can settle anywhere, even huge and uneven clay pits in north Cornwall.  

With the idea set, work began and over the years thousands of seeds, bushes and trees were planted, eventually creating the 'eighth wonder of the world’ that we know today. 

A big part of the history of the Eden Project is the aim and ethos behind this incredible venture. The Eden Project’s mission is to deepen people’s understanding of the climate emergency so that we, as a collective, can make positive changes to protect our world. So, as you walk around Eden, make sure to keep an eye out for the countless facts that are on display. 

Outside gardens

Before you reach the world-famous biomes, a sloping walk through layers of plants and statues awaits.  

What was once a barren landscape now acts as a welcoming walkway to the Eden Project that houses over 3,000 varieties of plants. Some wild and untamed, and some carefully cultivated, the 20 acres of garden are home to a selection of different displays, which often change with the season.  

Art installations that include giant bees, and frames that show what the area used to look like are dotted around the outdoor garden, along with beautiful areas of mystical beauty and intrigue. 

Following the Eden Project’s passion for learning, a variety of signs, educational displays, and interactive installations can be found in the gardens, giving a deeper look behind what you see, which are interesting for both the kids and grown-ups! 

Rainforest biome 

At a staggering 55 metres tall and 100 metres wide, the rainforest biome is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, which is made up of over 1,000 varieties of plants and covers habitats from Southeast Asia, West Africa and tropical South America. 

With handy little signs dotted around with information on plants, countries and the environment, as well as fun interactive and educational displays, walking around the biome and taking everything in will take you at least 1.5 hours (more if you get distracted by the many birds who call this paradise their home). 

During your tour of this tropical treasure-trove, you’ll discover a huge indoor waterfall, a wobbly treetop bridge and you can even climb to the very top of the 55ft tall viewing platform! 

During your jungle trek, stay on the lookout for some of the more exotic and interesting plants such as the titan arum, which stinks of rotten flesh for 48 hours when it blooms, and the giant Santa Cruz water lilypads that float in the pools. 

The temperature varies between 18–35°C so you’ll want to wear something fairly cool. In the winter months we recommend carrying your jacket rather than wearing it inside this biome. 

Our top tip to beat the temperature has to be grabbing one of the Eden Project’s famous ice creams before you head in. Inspired by the fruits of the rainforest and found on the balcony before you enter, their wonderfully cooling selection is made using unrefined whole sugar cane so you can taste the tropics while you explore them. 

Mediterranean biome 

Encompassing the Mediterranean, California, South Africa and Western Australia, the Mediterranean biome is full of secret groves, hidden sculptures and some truly incredible sights and smells. 

Prickly cacti and beautifully detailed flowers await in this trip to the continent. One of our top tips for this biome is to make full use of your senses, including touch as some of the flowers are very tactile and have scents and patterns that are best enjoyed up close.  

Some interesting collections to keep an eye out for include the citrus grove, the perfume garden, the Western Australia garden and the golden path that leads you through the twisted trunks of the olive grove. 

While ambling around the pretty stone paths in the biome, keep an eye out for the many sculptures that reside there. From an imposing Greek god to a family of cork pigs that pull at the heartstrings, there are lots of things to discover in this fascinating giant bubble. 

On certain days you can find storytellers and other performers in the biome, making it a great stop for the kids. 

The temperature is cooler than that of its tropical counterpart at 9–25°C making it a welcome change from the humid environment of the neighbouring tropical jungle. 

The Eden Project is peppered with relaxed cafes, ice cream bars and restaurants, so you can treat the taste buds along with the other senses during your visit.

Following the theme of sustainability that the Eden Project so closely follows, each of the food outlets make sure to source ethical and sustainable ingredients and products so you know that you’re getting good food that’s also good for the planet. 

Kicking things off as you enter Eden, the Eden Coffee House is situated in the visitor centre and is the perfect spot to indulge in an ethically sourced coffee and cake that you can eat in or take it with you as you explore everything Eden has to offer. 

From sourdough pizzas to hand-rolled burritos, the Biome Kitchen is a great place to stop and refuel during your visit. Nestled on the ground floor between the two biomes, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a substantial feed, sit down to a delicious meal that could easily have come from a family-owned restaurant in Italy. 

If you’re after something a little lighter, you can pick up a super comforting toastie or sourdough melt from the Little Lunch Box, which sits just outside the Biome Kitchen. 

You can also pick up an ice cream in this area, giving you the perfect sweet treat to finish your meal. 

For the organised people out there who like to bring their own food, a range of picnic areas and benches around the gardens enable you to enjoy your lunch surrounded by the sights and smells of the carefully curated displays. 

It goes without saying that the best thing to do at the Eden Project is to explore the many displays dotted around the gardens and biomes, but that’s not all there is to do. 

Fly through the air above the biomes on the longest and fastest zipwire in England, conquer great heights on the aerial assault course, test your bravery with a leap of faith, and much more with the Eden Project’s slew of activities with Hangloose Adventure .  

In the Core building, which is the one shaped like a giant sunflower, you’ll find an absorbing exhibition all about the interconnectivity of life from its tiniest organisms to its biggest accomplishments. Inside the Core you’ll also find two of the most interesting man-made installations at the Eden Project: a huge granite seed-like sculpture and a giant blue sculpture that breathes. 

Eden Sessions

With biomes lit up like giant disco balls, you couldn’t ask for a better setting to a live event than the Eden Project. With performers such as Amy Winehouse, Muse and Elton John having graced the stage, it’s always worth keeping an eye out for who’s coming up for the Eden Sessions as you never know which acclaimed artist will be next. 

Eden Marathon and Half Marathon

If you’re an avid runner, why not combine your visit to the Eden Project with one of the biggest running events in Cornwall. You can take part in either the full or half marathon, both of which enjoy wonderfully varied terrain and the chance to see more of the surrounding area. You and your supporters also get free entry to Eden Project for the day, with all runners enjoying a pasty and a pint after the race. In place of event t-shirts, Eden Project will be planting a sapling for every participant, so not only can you spend the day marvelling at the incredible nature that surrounds you, your participation will actually add to it!

Spooky season is something of a must at Eden, with lots of great activities for the little ghouls to get involved with. This year, the Eden Project will become home to a group of Tree Giants hidden around the gardens protecting the world’s forests. Live performances, wand making workshops, and a scarily fun ice rink? Halloween at the Eden Project is a hauntingly good time to visit!

Christmas at Eden

Christmas is always a magical time of year and the Eden Project is no exception. A temporary ice skating rink is built for the winter months, October to February, allowing everyone to strap on their skates and fall over in a festive fashion. During this period, a pop-up Ice Rink Café emerges so you can warm up with a burger, hot chocolate or coffee and a cake after your spin on the ice. 

Continue the Christmas festivities at Eden with a tour of the dazzlingly lit biomes. In the rainforest biome you can take a colourful tour up to the illuminated waterfall, which adds even more beauty to this indoor wonder, while in the Mediterranean biome you can enjoy Christmas music and a glittering disco ball, turning the whole place into a giant, encapsulating snow globe. 

The Eden Project prides itself on accessibility and inclusivity and it’s easy to see why. There is no admission charge for personal assistants and assistance dogs are welcome throughout Eden, including the biomes. 

The Eden Project is completely accessible to those who need a wheelchair and has around 40 free-to-use wheelchairs on site for visitors, which are available in the Apple car parks and visitor centre. They also have six powered chairs and an all-terrain tramper mobility scooter, which can also be hired out and is perfect for touring the steep slopes of the outside garden. These can go fast, however, so if you would like to book one for your visit you can do so by emailing [email protected] or calling them on 01726 811911.

For those with visual impairments, a range of options are available. There is a Braille guide book available for your visit, as well as high-powered magnifying glasses, text readers, and even an Access Guide to support you throughout your visit. 

There are countless interesting facts you can learn during your visit to the Eden Project, but here are some of our favourites to get you started... 

It appeared in the James Bond film Die Another Day

It’s home to the largest indoor rainforest in the world 

You could fit the Tower of London inside the rainforest biome 

It also has the second-largest redwood forest in Europe

All the toilets on site flush using rainwater

The Eden Project still holds the Guinness Book of World Record for most scaffolding used on a single structure

A lot of the materials found around the Eden Project have been creatively recycled, such as the green tiles used in the Core, which used to be Heineken beer bottles

Although the first of its kind, the Eden Project is being expanded with over 10 New Edens being built around the world

Ready to explore and discover the wonders held at the Eden Project? Find out more and book your visit now . 

Book your Cornish holiday today in one of our holiday cottages and take a look at some other beautiful places to visit in Cornwall to start planning your adventure.

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The Eden Project is a giant, indoor rainforest that is located in St Austell, Cornwall.

Since opening in 2001, it has become one of the UK’s most popular attractions, welcoming visitors from all over the world.

While the entire site covers 30 acres, the 2 domes (or biomes) total an impressive 5 acres and replicate different climates. The Mediterranean Biome offers a true representation of Spain, Italy or Greece, while the Rainforest Biome offers a more tropical experience and gives an authentic rainforest feeling, with heat and humidity to match!

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Wellington  – Longforth Car Park Taunton  – Galmington Launderette, Kings Arms & Merry Monk North Petherton  – Verriers Bus Stop Bridgwater – Bus and Coach Station

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Visiting Eden Project in Cornwall

Table of Contents

The Eden Project is one of the most popular attractions in the English county of  Cornwall . The complex is dominated by two huge enclosures consisting of adjoining domes that house thousands of plant species and each enclosure emulates a natural biome.

“More than just a huge, tropical garden, Eden is a gateway into the relationships between plants and people and a fascinating insight into mankind’s dependence on plant life. Not only a mind-blowing visitor attraction, but Eden is also fast becoming a unique resource for education and knowledge towards a sustainable future.” [ visitcornwall.com ]

It was recognised by the British Travel Awards as the Best UK Leisure Attraction 5 years running (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015). Even people that go more than once per year think it is worth the visit, as it keeps growing and adding new activities and attractions.

Rainforest Biome

The biomes consist of hundreds of hexagonal and pentagonal, inflated, plastic cells supported by steel frames. The largest of the two biomes simulates a rainforest environment and it is simply impressive.

It is the largest indoor rainforest in the world. It covers 1.56 ha (3.9 acres) and measures 55 m (180 ft) high, 100 m (328 ft) wide, and 200 m (656 ft) long. It is used for tropical plants (over 1,000 varieties), such as fruiting banana plants, coffee, rubber and giant bamboo, and is kept at a tropical temperature and moisture level.

You should wear clothing suitable for hot weather and expect to spend up to 1.5-2 hours inside. Some of the key things to see are the Canopy Walkway,  the Malaysian House, the Waterfall, an Oil Palm exhibit and the Baobab Bar. The latter offers smoothies that combine coconut milk, banana and nutritious baobab powder from Africa’s iconic trees. The Bar also serves baobab rum cocktails.

Mediterranean Biome

The Mediterranean Biome is not as large nor as impressive as the Rainforest one, but it also comprises more than 1,000 varieties of plants and a lot of things to see. It is a Mediterranean climate so you can expect lower temperatures, between 9 and 25°C.

Some of the key things to see are the Western Australia Garden, the Bacchanalian sculptures, an array of South African proteas, the Liquid Gold (mosaic path) and some gnarled old cork trees ( even some cork sculptures).

There are also educational acts for children and the Med terrace, where you can enjoy sensational food inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean.  Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options are available.

The Core is the latest addition to the site and opened in September 2005. It provides the Eden Project with an education facility, incorporating classrooms and exhibition spaces designed to help communicate Eden’s central message about the relationship between people and plants. Accordingly, the building has taken its inspiration from plants, most noticeable in the form of the soaring timber roof, which gives the building its distinctive shape.

One key thing to see is the Invisible Worlds, which is a major new permanent exhibition that reveals the world beyond our senses: too big, too small, too fast, too slow, too far away in space and time. Another highlight is a huge seed-shaped sculpture by artist Peter Randall-Page.

Outdoor Gardens

What was a china clay pit is now a vibrant and stunning garden with over 3,000 varieties of plants. You’ll get breathtaking views of the Biomes and discover gardens and landscapes featuring everything from beautiful ornamental flowers to crops used for medicine, fuels, materials and food.

Some of the key things to see are the Spiral Garden, a giant steelman, The Nest,  the Global allotments, the Lavender field and the giant bee.

Zip Wire and Adventurous Activities

Skywire is England’s longest and fastest zip-wire experience. You would cruise 660 meters at a cool 60 mph (96.5 kph), in approximately 45 seconds. It is suitable for anyone over 8 years of age, who also weighs between 40 kg and 120 kg.

It is a very popular attraction so you should allow 40 minutes to 1 hour to complete the experience. The only downside is the high price: £30. You can book online here . It is separated from the Eden complex, so no admission is needed.  The same company, Hangloose Adventure , offers other activities:

• SkyTrek: aerial trekking course
• Vertigo: 360 swing
• Gravity: giant swing
• The Drop: leap of faith
• Big Air: base jump

There is also brilliant local, fairly-traded food in the restaurants and cafes. Gifts and souvenirs are also available in the shop. Evening gigs, concerts and an ice rink in the winter are also part of the complex varied events.

Other things to see and visit are:

• Minibeast Mansion play tower
• The nest climbing frame
• Eve sculpture

Accommodation

There is on-site accommodation available: YHA Eden Project . It comprises modern bedrooms made from shipping containers, so keeping their sustainability philosophy. There are 58 en-suite bedrooms with TVs and full air conditioning. Prices start at £39 per room.

Other recommended options are:

• Cornhill Farm Cottages
• Emms Cottage
• Verde Limone
• Carlyon Bay Caravan & Camping

We stayed at  Tredethy House , a relaxed and  elegant English  country house  built in the Tudor period. The experience was all right overall, even though some rooms are old. And it is only 30 minutes away from Eden.

Tickets can be purchased online and with a 10% off if you do it in advance (at least 1 day). An Advance Pass is also available, which gives you unlimited entry for a whole year and also allows them to treat your admission fee as a donation to their charity. And it costs the same as a Single Entry Advance Ticket.

There are no maps available onsite on paper (for free), so you can print one in advance or just take a picture of the one at the entrance.

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• Best Places To Stay Near...

The Best Places to Stay Near the Eden Project

When the tropical biomes of Eden in Cornwall breathed new life into an old china clay crater, the surrounding hotels and B&Bs got a serious upgrade too. Here are the best places to stay, all bookable with Culture Trip.

Exploring the Eden Project is just the start of your adventure in mid-Cornwall. You can also tour the harbour villages of Fowey, Charlestown and Mevagissey, walk the beautiful South West Coast Path and discover other great Cornish gardens such as the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Lanhydrock. At the end of the day, return to one of these fantastic places to stay.

1. Bradleigh Lodge

This is a welcoming B&B just outside St Austell with a well-kept garden that makes a perfect place to enjoy a takeaway. Traditional style (chintz curtains with valances and freestanding wardrobes) mixes with more modern touches (Banksy prints and contemporary lighting) – but the jewel in the crown is the deluxe suite. A copper roll-top bath, teal walls with a stylish mural and even a small kitchen (handily equipped with a washing machine) add up to give a top-end boutique feel to this small B&B.

2. Carlyon Bay Hotel

Spa Hotel, Luxury

Nespresso coffee machines and freshly cut flowers come as standard in most of the super-comfortable bedrooms at this luxury clifftop hotel, and all have fluffy white robes and slippers. Go for a superior room and they’ll throw in a decanter of sherry and evening canapés. The feel is of a private club with tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, spa, championship golf course and private beach. But it’s the incredible views of St Austell Bay that might tempt you further afield.

3. Eden's Rest Bed & Breakfast

Bed and Breakfast

Its spot in the quiet clay village of Bugle may not be the most glamorous, but the welcome, service and immaculate rooms at this two-bedroom bungalow B&B more than make up for it. As the name suggests, it’s close to the Eden Project – just 6km (4mi) away – but also within easy reach of both coasts. Guests consistently rave about top-notch service where the owners go out of their way to help with the little things that make a stay special.

4. Honeycombe House

At the top of a steep hill with panoramic views of Mevagissey Harbour and the dramatic coastline beyond, this is a family-run B&B that punches above its weight. Bedrooms are clean, comfortable and contemporary (with blackout blinds) and if you’ve brought two wheels to enjoy the National Cycle Network that runs past the house, there’s secure storage for them. But it’s the 180-degree sea view from your breakfast table that’s guaranteed to get your day off to the best start.

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5. Ivy House Cornwall

This gorgeous Georgian manor house is surrounded by lush gardens of magnolias, camellias and hydrangeas, yet just a short walk from St Austell. The three bedrooms feel clean, airy and large and ceilings are high. Don’t miss the delicious homemade jams and marmalades made with seasonal fruits from the beautiful garden. Enjoy looking over that same garden from your breakfast table.

6. Rashleigh Arms

Nautical stripes and white walls, this is clean, contemporary, coastal décor at its best. Just a stroll from the historic harbour and tall ships of Charlestown (a star of many films and Cornish TV favourite Poldark ), this 18-bedroom inn is family- and dog-friendly. The best rooms have harbour and sea views and the pub is laid-back and welcoming.

7. The Water Wheel Inn

Pubs with Rooms

In a wooded valley beside a river, this lovely inn stands out for its beautiful setting. Although close to a road, it has a secluded and remote feel thanks to its fern-peppered gardens with ponds, waterfalls and an ancient well. The decked terrace and patio overlooks it all; the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine come sundown.

Looking for somewhere different to stay? Book into one of the best boutique B&Bs in Cornwall , or, if you’re travelling with your four-legged friend, opt for a top pet-friendly stay . Inspire your Kernow itinerary with the most beautiful coastal walks in the county – don’t miss the most beautiful towns , either.

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University and college trips

The Eden Project is a fantastic destination for FE and HE study and field trips.

Our skilled team offers a range of experiential learning programmes, tailored workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours that add value and enrich your courses – plant science, geography, business, tourism, sustainability and more. 

Online webinars, workshops and livestreams are also available to enable your students to engage with Eden, wherever you are.

Our approach to HE and FE

Our learning programmes bring theory to life, prompting students to challenge ideas, embrace complexity and imagine a different future. We thrive on collaboration, and are keen to work with you to design programmes that inspire change and have a long-lasting impact on students’ outlook.

Student quote

BioLab Sciences student from UCW “ I would definitely recommend to another university with modules related to ecology/environment. ”

A fantastic place to learn

New York University

New York University “ We cannot thank you enough for all your interest, enthusiasm, and inspiration that you give our university every year. ”

Our expertise includes

Science - Environmental, horticultural, life, climate, biodiversity, nature-based solutions, geothermal engineering. 

Sustainability - Climate change, behaviour change, language and interpretation. 

Business - Innovation, social enterprise and sustainable business, learn about our history, our mission our context and our impact. 

Tourism – More than a major tourist destination, the trials and tribulations of running Eden Project. 

Education - Interpretation, engagement, ESD, working within the National Curriculum. 

Art and Creativity – Storytelling using design, architecture, interpretation and events. 

Geothermal visits - Meet the experts running Eden Geothermal , this exciting project has potential in our quest for carbon neutrality.

One Planet MBA team, University of Exeter Business School

University of Exeter “ Thank you for the wonderful programme you put together for us. It was organised with so much thought and care. ”

Sessions to suit you

The format of your session can be adapted to suite your requirements, budget and locality. 

Face to Face Presentations

Meet one of our experienced lecturers to bring your subjects to life with images, videos and storytelling, encouraging students to ask awkward questions and challenge preconceptions. 

We facilitate tours of the site and the biomes.

Our site tours are guided by an expert who provides technical insight into how the site operates. This includes aspects such as water and energy systems. These experts share their experiences, giving your students first hand insight into our sustainability journey, as we trial cutting edge sustainable practises in the real world. Students will also be exposed to possible careers pathways on offer through the lens of a large charity, a social enterprise and a sustainable business.

Alternatively, head into the biomes with an expert to hear how our lives are linked to the natural world and how we can play a positive role in protecting the natural systems that keep us alive. These interactive tours will help develop understanding, spark curiosity and stimulate lively conversations on topics ranging from regenerative stewardship, biodiversity, climate change, food security, conservation, the planetary emergency and living in harmony with nature. 

Clay Country walks

Taking in expansive views (weather permitting) and intimate spaces, this is a great way to develop a deeper understanding of Eden Project’s place in the landscape. See how geology has influenced Cornwall’s landscape, history, economy and biodiversity and hear stories about the long and proud history of Cornwall, its industry, its natural beauty and its people.

Online digital experiences

If you can’t visit us in person, try our interactive and bespoke online offers. These sessions are designed to bring the magic of our site to you.

Entry-only visit

Explore Eden Project with your students, at your own pace. This is charged at the group bookings rate.

If you can’t find what you are looking for or have any suggestions, please get in touch and talk to our team. 

Practical details

Our taught sessions cost from £23 per student, including entrance and VAT. There is a minimum charge of £276 per session (equivalent to 12 students). One free tutor place per 10 students.

YHA Eden Project

Stay overnight at the eden project.

Are you travelling from further afield? Why not stay overnight at our on-site YHA accommodation (available between April and September). Choose from bell tents, Landpods, Airstreams or camping.  

Get in touch

Please contact our team via our booking enquiry form  to discuss how we can create a memorable trip for your student group. If you're organising a school or college trip for A-level students, please visit our School visits page instead.

Frequently asked questions

We welcome facilitated education groups at Eden from Monday to Friday during term time. As Eden can be very busy at peak times of the year, you may find visiting outside the main tourist season more rewarding.

In our experience, many groups find they have not allowed enough time to explore Eden when planning their visit. Our site is large and four hours or more is best for a worthwhile exploration. If you book for one of our taught sessions, we’d recommend you allow extra time to explore the site as well.

The onsite YHA Eden Project is currently only accepting bookings from families and individuals.

It's totally up to you, but our suggested ratio for tutors/students is 1:10, or with 3 to 4 tutors accompanying groups over 40. Any helpers above and beyond this will be charged at our group booking rate .

You'll find  fabulous places to eat at the Eden Project , including right inside the Mediterranean Biome, a deli-style cafe, and the huge Eden Kitchen where chefs prepare fresh food in front of your eyes.

We are committed to supporting visits for those with special educational needs. We aim to create equal opportunities for everybody to experience, learn about and get involved in the Eden Project. You might find our  Access Guide  helpful. Please tell us your requirements when you make your booking.

Don’t worry, we do our utmost to ensure that your visit is enjoyable, worthwhile and safe. Please contact us if you need additional information.

You’re welcome to bring more staff if you’d like, who will be charged at our group booking rate .

All college and university visits should be booked in advance by filling in our  college and university booking enquiry form . We will request a deposit on booking and invoice your organisation for the balance two weeks before your visit. Please note that only education groups with a confirmed booking are eligible for our discounted education rates.

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£130m Dundee Eden Project approved by councillors

The Dundee Eden Project will be based at the site of the city's former gasworks

• Published 17 June 2024

Planning permission for Dundee's £130m Eden Project has been approved by councillors.

The major visitor attraction will be based at the former gasworks site to the north of East Dock Street.

It will features three venues, including one housed inside the gas holder to the south-eastern corner of the site.

The charity's Cornwall site, billed as "the largest indoor rainforest in the world", attracts about a million visitors a year.

One venue in the attraction will be based inside a former gas holder

Blair Parkin, the Eden Project’s chief experience development officer, said the approval marked a "major milestone" for the proposal.

He said: "This is a project for Dundee, by Dundee and we are incredibly proud of the work we have undertaken together to get the project to this stage.

“We will allow ourselves a moment of celebration but we are well aware there is still lots to do to make Eden Project Dundee a reality.

"We will now concentrate on working with all our partners, progressing the design, securing investment and continuing to deliver our community programmes in the city.”

The Dundee attraction will combine exhibits, performance, learning, play, immersive experiences, horticulture, live music, and art.

There will also be food, beverage and retail spaces.

The first venue, called The Valve, a single storey entrance exhibition building to the west of the site, will include a café with seating areas.

The second venue, The Lush Bunker is inside the gas holder and will include an exhibition space titled The Seam.

Eden Project said this will be the most prominent architectural element of the site measuring approximately 36m (118ft) at its highest point .

A separate application for a pedestrian bridge joining the Eden Project to the waterfront will be considered later

A ramp will take visitors though three different levels within the building with different themes.

The third, currently-unnamed, venue will sit over two levels and will include gallery spaces, installations, exhibits, and artworks.

Additional plans include Gathering Meadows, a space to the south of the site, which includes an external live events space with a capacity of up to 6,000 people.

Dundee City Council leader, Councillor John Alexander, called the site an example of the city's "ambitious regeneration drive".

He said: “The project will help deliver hundreds of jobs, huge visitor numbers and tens of millions of pounds for the local economy. But it will also provide new educational opportunities and seek to build work on efforts within our communities, well beyond the site boundary.

“It will attract people from far and wide, as well as being very much for the citizens of Dundee."

A separate planning application for a pedestrian bridge joining the Eden Project to the waterfront will be considered at a later date.

Related Topics

More on this story.

Eden Project reveals site of first Scottish venue

• Published 21 May 2021

Dundee chosen for new Eden Project attraction

• Published 27 May 2020

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