Between 2022-2023, we teamed up with the Sensory Trust as a partner in their More Than Words project. We were one of four industrial heritage partners in Cornwall, the others being Wheal Martyn Clay Works, Geevor Tin Mine and Kresen Kernow. The project has created sensory-rich interpretation to invite new audiences, so that everyone has the opportunity to engage with heritage regardless of age or ability.
Throughout the project, we worked closely with local groups of people with disabilities and their carers (including SENSE Get Out There, the Wednesday Wanderers and Hayle Academy’s Nurture Group) to develop accessible learning experiences, and trial new approaches to sensory-rich interpretation (sensory stories, trails, etc.).
We now have a package of sensory-rich resources, allowing everyone to enjoy and explore the remarkable history of Hayle. The resources encourage outdoor learning, uncovering the stories behind several of the key historic locations around the town.
Explore Hayle’s mighty industrial past using our new Story Trail of Hayle.
Accessibility:
- The Story Trail of Hayle route follows an accessible route around Hayle town.
- Distance of whole tour around Hayle is 1.4km from story points 1 to 8.
- The tour route is mostly on level tarmac or pavements around the town.
- There are some roads to cross in between points.
- There is a slight upward slope from the Millpond Garden (story point 2) to Foundry Farm (story point 3).
- The Millpond Garden story route has a natural, compacted paths, running through a garden and wooded walkway. There may be some tree roots within the path.
- This is a video tour. Short story films can be watched listened to on a smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer, the sound levels can be adjusted to suit people’s needs.
- Physical copies of the story trail booklet are available to pick up at Hayle Heritage Centre, Hayle Library and Cafe Rivière on King George V Memorial Walk.
Alternatively, access the short story films directly via our YouTube channel here.
An audio version of the trail is also available on GeoTourist.
- Click onto the link here – https://geotourist.com/tours/6854/The_Story_Trail_of_Hayle
– or use the QR tag below to open the Geo Tourist app.
A) If you wish to walk and enjoy the Story Trail of Hayle tour around the town.
- Click the ‘Start Tour’ button.
- You will need to sign up and create a free GeoTourist account, by following the instructions.
- Once your account is set up, scan the QR tag again and click ‘Start Tour’.
- If you allow your location, you can use the GeoTourist map to locate the story points and enjoy the trail tour around Hayle.
- The starting point is Hayle Heritage Centre, 24 Foundry Square, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 4HQ.
- Enjoy the Story Trail of Hayle tour, moving from point to point to discover the history and heritage of Hayle at your leisure.
B) If you wish to enjoy the story trail at home.
- Click the ‘Explore At Home’ button.
- Find yourself a comfy place to sit, grab a cuppa and enjoy the stories of the history and heritage of Hayle.
- The audio descriptive introduction and 8 stories last in total 26 minutes.
Sensory Rich Story – A Day at the Foundry
Sensory stories are tools to tell fact or fictional stories in an engaging, sensory-rich way. They consist of a short story where each line of text is equal to a sensory experience. Sensory rich stories are used to engage with a wide audience in an inclusive way.
Our 5-minute story describes a day in the life at the Harvey’s Foundry, using handling objects to offer sensory learning experiences.
Please get in touch if you run a group and would like your sensory learners to visit the Heritage Centre for a performance of our sensory story, as part of a wider visit. Alternatively, we can come to you! To discuss, email daisy@harveysfoundrytrust.org.uk or call 01736 757683.
Activity packs
We also offer:
Texture Tote Bag –
Take our Textures Tote Bags with you as you explore Hayle through its industrial and natural textures.
Smell Journal –
Discover Hayle’s industrial and natural heritage using your sense of smell. Record your findings in your very own Smell Journal!
Sound Exploring –
What can you hear in Hayle? Have a go at mapping the sounds of Hayle with our Sound Exploring pack.
Please get in touch if you run a group and would like your sensory learners to explore the town of Hayle using their senses with one or more of our Activity Packs. Email daisy@harveysfoundrytrust.org.uk or call 01736 757683.
