Discover Cornwall's Gardens
"Have a look at the wonderful gardens of Cornwall"
Please check the individual websites for Opening Times and admission fee
This is a vast subject so we have devided the gardens into four areas of East, South, West and North. In addition to this we have mentioned some inland gardens and also crossed the water to the beautiful Isles of Scilly to visit the Abbey Gardens on Tresco. So just scroll down to the area that you are interested in.
Cornwall enjoys the power of the Gulf Stream with its temperate climate of warm summers, mild and wet winters which in turn allows exotic and rare plants to thrive. Cornwall is often thought of throughout the world as the 'Garden Capital of the World'.
Where else can you find so many gardens with history dating back to the Iron Age? As long ago as the early 19th century Cornish gardeners were part of the Victorian plant hunters who collected exotic plants and seeds from all around the world.
All around Britain you will be hard-pressed not to find a 'Veitch' plant or one derived from their nurseries. The Veitch family sent many collectors all over the world to bring back seeds and plants. These included two Cornish brothers, William and Thomas Lobb, William Lobb died in San Francisco in 1864 but his brother Thomas lived in Devoran on the South coast of Cornwall until his death in 1894.
That gives us what we have today: tranquil and spectacular gardens to explore with lush vegetation and sup-tropical theatres of colour brimming with exciting, rare and beautiful plants. Cornwall's gardens are found in our magnificent Castles, Manor Houses, grand Farm Estates, Mill Houses, private houses, sheltered valleys, high up on blustery moorland and nestled in woodland and seaside gardens.
Cornwall's gardens are so diverse as they vary in size from small and intimate to acres of rolling countryside. Some with enchanting lakes and a Victorian boathouse to water gardens with tree ferns, rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias. Others have walled gardens and manicured lawns to the newest of all two magnificent Biomes filled with magic from around the world.
A lot of our gardens are Dog Friendly. so don't leave part of the family at home, bring them along as well. It would be wise to check first with the garden you are intending to visit just to make sure that it is 'dog friendly'. Some of our Cornish gardens are more accessible than others so again if part of your group is less agile check with the garden to make sure you will enjoy your visit.
East Cornwall
Mount Edgcumbe - at Torpoint has The Earl's Garden with old and unusual trees including a 400-year-old lime. The Formal Gardens were created over 200 years ago in English, French and Italian styles also an American plantation, a New Zealand styled garden and a Jubilee Garden. Mount Edgcumbe's valley garden overlooks Plymouth Sound and the pond named Milton's Temple is a haven for the birds. It is also home to approximately 1000 varieties of Camellias.
Cotehele - at St. Dominick, Nr. Saltash tells the story of the Tamar Valley. Take a picnic with you to enjoy while you explore the vast diverse range of gardens consisting of flower beds, woodlands, valley gardens, herbaceous borders, old orchards, ponds, terraces, an old dovecote and a Victorian summerhouse. There is wisteria, roses, magnolias, camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, old oaks, yews, chestnut and sycamore trees. Many miles of footpath can be found on this estate which lead to Cotehele Quay and further on Cotehele Watermill and the Danscombe Valley.
Antony - at Torpoint was recently used as a backdrop for the film Alice in Wonderland. The gardens are privately owned by the Carew Pole Garden Trust. It consists of 100 acres of gardens and woodlands bordering the Lynher Estuary and holds a national collection of Camellia Japonica. You will find 300 varieties of camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons, azaleas and many exotic trees such as Japanese maples, a conifer dell and giant redwoods.
Ince Castle Gardens - at Saltash is approached by a tunnel of trees. This garden overlooks the River Lynher and enjoys woodlands filled with rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias, vibrant shrubs and formal gardens. The gardens extend to 5 acres and enjoys river views from all areas. Masses of hellebores and bulbs can be found here in early spring. There is a climbing frame for the children and plenty of lawn space to get rid of that energy.
Port Eliot Gardens - at St. Germans is on the Rame Peninsula. Back in 960 there was a monastery here and it was called Port Priory. Port Eliot is on the banks of the River Lynhyr and has 39 acres of woodland garden and 22 acres around the house, both are Grade One Listed. A mature garden, a lot under a closed canopy, consisting of lawns, gigantic trees, rhododendrons and camellias. The Rhododendron Garden was planted in the 1930's and since 1985 various oaks and, laurels as windbreaks, have been planted. Near the house is weeping birch, green maple and Japanese laurel and on the riverbank there are 17 different types of Oak. There are Indian bean trees, American chestnut, Mississippi cypress and two rare trees found in a valley in Australia. A South African pine was planted in 1988 and its cones stay on the branches for years until they fall to the ground and the seeds germinate. After the floral seasonn in June it reverts back to a woodland garden with lots of different greens. The Orangery which has now been restored was built in the 1840's as a greenhouse and the Orangery Garden has yew hedges, a fountain and more recently has been planted with white roses and white tulips. Dogs are welcome.
Pentillie Castle Gardens - at Callington are only open on specific days but include a wide variety of trees, plants and flowers including insects birds and beef cattle. The orchard has been replanted with old Tamar Valley varieties of apple and cherry and they now press their own apple juice. There is a kitchen garden and an American garden.
South Cornwall
The South is awash with fabulous gardens which proves how sheltered this coast is here in Cornwall and many are overflowing with collections of Cornish rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias.
Hidden Valley Gardens - Near Par won the Cornwall Tourism Silver award 2010 for small visitor attraction. This is a four acre garden and plant nursery selling perennials, all sitting in a secluded hidden valley. There is a Mediterranean area, Japanese area, a Fairy Well, Iris garden, Potager garden, fruit and fernery area and a tranquil pond all in a warm microclimate.
Marsh Villa Gardens - at Par is a magical 3-acre water and woodland garden which lies in an eighteenth century tidal creek, the same one that Daphne Du Maurier based her novel 'The House on the Strand'. The garden is made up of different rooms which lead from one to another with a hornbeam avenue at its centre and also herbaceous borders, bog garden, pond and fernery. Maybe you will spot some of the wildlife that thrives in this garden. A 'potting shed' has been refurbished so that visitors can take a rest and make themsleves a cup of tea or coffee.
Tregrehan - at Par is a large woodland garden and home to the Carlyon family since 1565. It is home to a 25 metre Oak tree germinated from an acorn which was sent home from India in 1894 and there are also many oak and chestnuts here from the early 1600's. This is a 20 acre informal woodland garden and known as 'Cornwall's temperate rainforest'. There is a formal walled garden and many exotic plants in the glasshouse.
Pinetum Park and Pine Lodge Gardens - Near St. Austell is a 30-acre paradise with over 6000 labelled plants. Ray and Shirley Clemo travelled the world collecting seeds and plants for this garden and a pair of black swans have made it their home. This is a unique garden from an amphitheatre of conifers and pines to an intimate Japanese Garden. Many rare, unusual and tender plants thrive in this sheltered garden.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan - at Pentewan have been voted Britain's finest garden and has scooped the title in the Countryfile Magazine Awards 2011. Celebrating 21 years since Heligan's Lost Gardens were re-discovered, this beauty provides 200 acres to explore. Discover the Northern Garden, the Jungle, the Wider Estate and the Horsemoor Hide and Wildlife Project. Now in May 2012 Heligan has been voted as the nation's greatest garden by reviewers of a leading European consumer site Qype. This puts Heligan above Kew Gardens and the Royal Botanical Garden in Edinburgh. In celebration of the Queen's jubilee there was a new pathway opened which is through the jungle area known as the Fern Gulley path. This presents a different perspective on the 'lost valley' giving visitors the chance to enter the real heart of the jungle. It leads from the boardwalk, across the valley floor, crossing the water on stepping stones and allowing views up to the giant tree ferns and bamboo as well as across the jungle watercourses.
Caerhays Castle Gardens - is situated in a valley above Porthluney Cove covering Castle Wood, Kennel Close Wood, Acres Wood and Old Park. A horticultural treasure covering 120 acres of woodland gardens and holder of the National Magnolia Collection and can be traced back to the great plant hunters Ernest Wilson and George Forrest. The garden is divided into 4 woodland walks and each one explores different areas of the garden. Now on display in the Castle is the up-to-date family tree of the Williams family.
Lamorran House Gardens - at St. Mawes is a four-acre Mediterranean-style garden with sea views over Falmouth Bay. History says that it is the most Northerly Palm Garden in the world. From Lamorran you can see the lighthouse at St. Anthony's Head. A large collection of rhododendrons and over 500 varieties of azaleas are grown here together with hundreds of palms and acacias all in a microclimate where frosts are rare.
St. Just in Roseland Church Gardens - St. Just in Roseland has a 13th century church and is set in a sheltered sub-troopical riverside garden filled with magnolias, azaleas, bamboos and giant gunnera. Through the paths of this garden you will also find small streams and many more exotic shrubs and it is a haven for bird life.
Poppy Cottage Garden - situated in the heart of the Roseland Peninsula. A one-acre garden planted in a series of rooms planted with clever combinations of shrubs, herbaceous perennials with all year-round interest and colour. Most of the plants are labelled so you will be able to take home some ideas from here and there are plenty of places to sit and relax.
Trelissick - at Feock. This 40-acre garden was planted 200 years ago and has views down the Falmouth estuary. It has year-round plant colour, an orchard, woodland walks and an art and crafts gallery. In the autumn 300 varieties of apples will be on display in the Georgian stables. There are four summerhouses to be found, a water tower, a footbridge, a Cryptomeria tree and perhaps find a quiet spot for a picnic amongst the 375 acres of parkland and woodland. A plant shop, restaurant and a cafe completes these magnificent gardens.
The Tregothnan Estate, - Nr. Truro has been home to the Boscawen family since 1335. The Estate produces English tea, coppiced charcoal, Manuka honey and Kea plum jam. Seasonal flowers come from the Tregothnan estate and surrounding land for hand-tied bouquets. This Estate is only open for two days in April each year with all proceeds going to charity but you can explore this working estate online and can book a private viewing if you wish. The Smugglers Cottage and the Tea Bar is open daily from 12noon to 5pm and available for bookings in the evening. If you arrive by boat you can moor at the private pontoon, take the King Harry Ferry from Trelissick or arrive on bike, by car or on foot. The Tea Bar is a place to think about the tea you are enjoying in beautiful surroundings and enjoy the Camellia sinensis growing on the opposite river banks. All their products can be bought on-line.
Lanterns - at Restronguet Hill, Mylor Bridge. Admission to Lanterns is by donation as this garden supports the Children's Hospice 'South West Precious Lives Appeal'. This is a small treasure in just under an acre with tall flowering trees, lush ferns and grasses, unusual shrubs, perennials and greenhouse plants. Potter amongst the winding paths in this spring-fed valley garden. Plants also for sale.
Enys Gardens - at St. Gluvias, Penryn is one of Cornwall's oldest gardens dating back to 1709. J.D. Enys 1837-1912 regularly sent home seeds and plants from New Zealand and Patagonia. Another garden with a microclimate and virtually frost free together with the influence of the Gulf Stream enables many exotic plants to flourish such as many rare bamboos, a Peruvian Laurel and a Maiden Hair Fern. Take in the water wheel and lakes in the lower valley and enjoy this garden just made for walkers.
Penjerrick Garden - at Budock Water is unspoilt with historic and immense botanical interest, relax among tree ferns and hidden paths. 15 acres divided in two parts, the Upper Garden features rhododendrons, tree ferns, magnolias, camellias and other trees and shrubs. From the top lawn you can see the sea through the trees. The Valley Garden is reached via a wooden bridge and has ponds, giant tree ferns and gunnera, all in a woodland setting.
Trebah Garden - is on the North bank of the Helford River and has been awarded Gold for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2011. An amazing sub-tropical paradise garden with a fabulous coastal location, spectacular plant species and is loved by the very young and old. See the Champion Trees, Water Garden, Bamboozle, Alice's Seat, Hydrangea Valley, Rhododendron Valley, Gunnera Passage, Stumpery and Cascade. Last but not least their very own secluded beach at the bottom of the garden, Polgwiddon Cove. Look across the unspoilt Helford River and to Falmouth Bay where oak forests line the banks. Eat at Trebah, shop at Trebah and relax at Trebah every day of the year.
Carwinion Garden - at Mawnan Smith overlooks the Helford River and is Cornwall's Bamboo Garden. It is open all year round and has a renowned collection of bamboo in its 14 acres of tranquil gardens. See dicksonia antarctica, cryptomaria japonica, chusan palms, giant gunnera, rhododendrons and camellias. Experience the Sensory Garden - a haven for anyone with sight, hearing or mobility problems. Giant pots raised up from the ground that can be touched and smelt with a mix of jasmine, lambs ear, sweet pea, lavender, rosemary, mint bamboo and grasses.
Glendurgan Garden - at Mawnan Smith lies in a sub-tropical valley running down to the Helford River. Have fun in the 180 year-old cherry laurel maze and the 'Giant's Stride' - a pole with ropes to swing from for the children, wander down through the winding paths of the garden and down to the hamlet of Durgan and the beach. Rare and exotic shrubs gives year-round interest as well as the spectacular magnolias and camellias in the Spring. Re-fuel at the tearooms with a tasty snack.
Potager Garden - is a new organic garden which is close to Constantine, five miles from Falmouth. Rescued from a wilderness of a plant nursery now teaming with mature trees, herbaceous planting, fruit and vegetables with a unique calm atmosphere. Play games - boules, badminton, and table tennis, laze in a hammock, visit the cafe for homemade cakes, lunches, teas or an ice cream then sit, paint or snooze in the 100 foot glasshouse. A garden which is still evolving.
West Cornwall
Moving on down the coast to England's southernmost Lizard Peninsula in West Cornwall we find more sub-tropical gardens with their own microclimate enabling tender plants to flourish from both hemispheres.
Bonython Estate Gardens - Nr. Helston has an 18th century Walled Garden, a Potager Garden, three lakes that run through the garden from a natural stream, a Woodland walk featuring the magnificent Magnolia trees, Camellias, Rhododendrons, Azaleas and all the spring bulbs. There is also a Valley garden with a stream cascade, tree ferns and where the garden ends the quarry pond which is now a natural water feature. The thatched Summer House is now the 'Tea House' from which you can watch the ducks swimming.
Bosahan Garden - at Manaccan is again close to the Helford River enjoying the Cornish microclimate and described as "the most Cornish of all Cornish gardens" in The Gardener magazine in 1909! Possibly this garden was planted by Arthur Pendarves Vivian in 1885. A winding stream travels through the centre of this atmospheric garden with rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, palm groves, Maidenhair tree ferns, plus trees and shrubs from the southern hemisphere. Ferns line the edges of the stream which runs down to the Helford River.
Trevarno Gardens - Nr. Helston closed on the 22nd April, 2012. Trevarno's complete range of organic beauty products for everyday skin and body care all prepared on the Estate using only natural ingredients are still open. There is public access to the shop and to Helston Railway, which has a mile of track running through the estate.
Carleen Subtropical Gardens - again Nr. Helston but by appointment only and are home to collections from South America, Mexico, Central and South Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Southern USA and the Mediterranean. All this in a peaceful setting where you can enjoy a picnic and perhaps buy a plant as well.
Hardy Exotics Nursery - This is a Nursery at Whitecross, Nr. Penzance but a Nursery with a difference as they grow virtually all the plants that they sell so you can wander around and see exactly what you will be buying. 2.5 acres of rare and unusual species are growing here: palms, succulents, puyas, and gunnera just to mention a few. They have developed a zoning system so you will know if the plant you would like to grow will live in your area like "Barbados in Birmingham", "Mauritius in Manchester" or "Hawaii in Hertford". This is a nursery not to be missed as they have a collection of over 1,500 species.
St. Michaels Mount - Now we have come to this beautiful island, walk across the causeway at low tide or travel by boat at other times. These gardens are steep but terraced and thrive in the shelter of the granite cliffs and you will find exotics from Mexico, Canary Islands and South Africa. Their gardeners have to abseil to tend to some of the areas. Clues are laid for children along a nature trail for a free prize at the end. Many of the plantings can be seen from the castle battlements. So much to see on this enchanting isle.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens - Nr. Gulval, Penzance is a 16-acre valley garden with magnificent views over St. Michael's Mount and Mounts Bay. A relatively new garden in a steep valley with quality soil on the Golden Mile. Ferns are planted along the stream with Mediterranean planting on the slopes. Huge abstract sculptures dotted around the site giving moments of focus. Now with a Visitor Centre, restaurant, toilets and car parking. Open daily until Christmas, closed over Christmas and during January 2013.
Chygurno - at Lamorna, Nr. Penzance this 3-acre garden carved into the cliff edge looking over Lamorna Cove with a decked vantage point that puts you at eye level with the trees. This waterside garden goes down in steep steps, pathways and terraces to a sheltered woodland. At the top hard exotic plants withstand the salt air whilst lower down species from the southern hemisphere survive including banana plants, foxgloves from the Canary Isles and silver tree ferns. Lower down you will find camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas line the paths. If you like a bit of a walking challenge this is the garden for you.
The Minack Theatre Gardens - at Porthcurno, Nr. Penzance have exotic sub-tropical rockeries on the cliffside with fabulous views across Porthcurno Beach. Rowena Cade developed this cliffside garden and theatre in the 1930's and the salt tolerant succulents thrive despite being open to the English Channel. Many of the plants that you see here can be purchased from the Gift Shop. The Minack Theatre is Cornwall's famous open-air theatre and is open from May to September. There is a cafe/restaurant, picnic site, free parking and is on a bus route.
Trewidden Garden - at Buryas Bridge, Penzance is a 15-acre garden with a Tree Fern Dell and some of the finest camellias and magnolias amongst the pathways in this peaceful location. There is a newly restored walled garden, a rock garden with erythroniums, a tree fern pit and a pond garden. Trewidden is roughly a square garden with ponds, each part being different to the other. Mary Williams planted the Magnolia hypoleuca on the North Walk in 1897 which is now the largest in the UK.
Trengwainton - at Madron, Nr. Penzance is owned by The National Trust. This historic 25-acre garden is bursting with displays of magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias. Winding and wooded paths meander around this garden which is also home to banana plants, enormous echiums, skunk cabbage, meconopsis, primulas, styrax, eucryphia and stewartia. You will remember this family-friendly garden with a family trail and you may even get lost amongst the giant tree fern glade. The tearooms were 2010 Cafe of the year.
Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden - at St. Ives is a unique experience which gives you an insight into the work of one of Britain's most important 20th century artists. Sculptures in bronze, stone and wood are on display in the museum and garden together with paintings, drawings and other material. She came to Cornwall with her husband and family in 1939 and worked in Trewyn studios - now the Museum - from 1949 untill her death in 1975. Most of the bronzes that are in the garden are still in the same position in which she placed them herself.
Penberth Garden - in the Penberth Valley at St. Buryan is a five acre natural valley garden with sea views. A fabulous place with camellias, rhododendrons, a water and rock garden. There is a cafe/restaurant for that all important cup of tea and plant sales as well.
Tresco Abbey Gardens - Now we cross the water and arrive on the beautiful Isles of Scilly and head for this amazing sub-tropical garden which is home to species of plants and trees from 80 countries ranging from Brazil to New Zealand and Burma to South Africa. The building of tall windbreaks ensures any inclement weather is forced up and over the walled enclosure. The terraces at the top are hotter and drier than the ones below which give more humidity. In 1990 hurricane force winds created dreadful damage to the shelter belts and the loss of many plants. The garden has now been restored and looking 'better than ever'. Many plants grown here would not survive on the Cornish mainland which is less than 30 miles away.
North Cornwall
We move on now to North Cornwall which is a more rugged coast fronting the Atlantic and as you will see there are not so many gardens on this coast.
Japanese Garden & Bonsai Nursery - in the beautiful Lanherne Valley at St. Mawgan. Just 1.5 acres but includes Water Gardens, Stroll Garden and a Zen Garden inspired by the East. Follow the winding paths to discover Japanese maples and azaleas, a koi pond, bamboo grove and moss garden. All the plants and ornaments all create harmony, reflection and a desire to see beyond. Open daily all year round, their pot selection is second to none and a wide range of ceramics, mica, plastic, hand built dishes, books, tools and accessories complete the picture. A free booklet with every Bonsai tree purchased together with an aftercare service ensures that mistakes are not made.
Prideaux Place - at Padstow is 40 acres of landscaped grounds and a deer park overlooking the Padstow estuary and the River Camel. From the house you can see the fallow deer which is thought to be the oldest herd in the country. There are several points of interest being a classical temple, an obelisk, a grotto and an exedra which is a small stone arbour housing Roman funerary urns. Enjoy the shady woodland walks as well.
Longcross Victorian Garden - at Trelights, Port Isaac. These gardens have been constructed to overcome the problems of being on the North coast, as this garden receives one-hundred-weight of salt per acre per year brought in by the winds. Because of this visitors comments are that "they have never seen a garden resembling the Longcross" but this gives a fine example of coastal gardening and hedging with views towards Port Isaac and Port Quin. There is a childrens play area, plant sales and a cafe/restaurant.
Inland Gardens
Cornwall has some more fine gardens that are a bit more inland than the others we have mentioned but when you are in Cornwall you are never more than sixteen miles away from the coast at any time.
Ken-Caro - at Liskeard is a 5 acre garden with outstanding views and fabulous colour from February right through to September. Camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons, herbaceous shrubs, wisteria, lily ponds plus meadows and a woodland walk fill this garden. A well organised and well labelled plantsman's garden set high above Bicton Manor Woods.
Moyclare Garden - at Liskeard established in 1927 in 1 acre and arranged around the house. The Cytisus "Moyclare Pink" and the astrantia "Moira Reid" originated in this garden. A new pergola has been erected with a number of arches and a fishpond with over a hundred goldfish hybrids and aquatic wildlife. The paths are suitable for wheelchair users. There are plants and shrubs from the Andes, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Tasmania and New Zealand as well as our familiar Camellias and Rhododendrons and other shrubs and plants from America, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Maderia, Mexico, Morocco Siberia and Tibet all providing a habitat for numerous birds, butterflies and moths. All in all a fascinating garden.
Pencarrow House and Gardens - The garden at Pencarrow, Nr. Bodmin is 50 acres and this is where the Monkey Puzzle tree got its name. If you like one of the plants you will probably be able to buy a cutting from it. A garden filled with azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, bluebells, conifers and hydrangeas. Children love to roll down the grassy slopes of the Italian Garden and you are allowed to walk on the grass! Pencarrow is home to a number of peacocks - watch them displaying in April and May. From the beginning of June you can pick-your-own soft fruit such as raspberries, strawberries and gooseberries. Phone for confirmation 01208 841371.The gift shop is an Alladin's cave for that perfect present or momento.
Pinsla Garden & Nursery - at Cardinham, Nr. Bodmin is a two acre garden and nursery in a peaceful wild woodland. This garden has been made for fun and to entertain you. Something for everyone, an idyllic haven and a hideaway full of secret paths, hazel arch, fantasy garden, rare plants, shrubs, trees, ferns, perennials and wildflowers created by garden artists. Wander around and then enjoy some tea and cake! One not to be missed I guess.
Lanhydrock House & Gardens - Nr. Bodmin. 30 acres of formal and informal woodland and then the garden opens onto a network of paths through 900 acres of countryside. The garden's were laid out about the mid 19th century by George Truefitt and rise to 130-metres above sea level but still flourish in this climate with rhododendrons and over 120 species of magnolias. Ideal for families and senior citizens. Pushchairs, infant seats and slings available for hire, also a cafe/restaurant, gift shop and plant sales. Guided tours of the gardens are available. Lanhydrock has teamed up with Callestick Farm Cornish Dairy Ice Cream to create a jubilee ice cream. It is based on the dessert Cherries Jubilee and combines a white chocolate ice cream base with a ripple of cherries soaked in kirsch - now available here at Lanhydrock.
Boconnoc House & Gardens - at Lostwithiel has a beautiful spring garden filled with rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas from the 1850 original planting together with many ancient trees. The Woodland Gardens are open for charity on Sundays in May and group visits for 20 people or more throughout the year. The Cornwall Gardens Society's 101st Spring Flower Show will be on 6th and 7th April in 2013. Known as Cornwall's hidden gem. There has been numerous films made here including Rosamund Pilcher, scenes from the 1993 film of 'The Three Musketeers' and the BBC2 production of 'Daphne'.
Trewithin - close to Grampound means 'house of the trees' and has 30 acres of woodland gardens and more than 200 acres of surrounding parkland. The horticulturalist George Johnstone, who inherited the house in 1904, cultivated many of the seeds that came from abroad thus ensuring the reputation that Trewithin has today. It boasts a renowned collection of magnolias, camellias, 24 'Champion Trees', woodland walks, tea shop and on-site nursery. Raised viewing platforms enables viewing from above. An unforgettable garden gem.
The Eden Project - close to St. Austell is the newest of all our Cornish gardens. Created from a disused China Clay pit the size of 30 football pitches in the year 2000 and the was opened on 17th March, 2001. Unique biomes filled with Tropical and Mediterranean plants that are constructed from a tubular steel space-frame clad in thermoplastic ETFE. At Eden you can travel around the world in a day! The world's largest rainforest with steamy jungles and waterfalls, stunning garden displays, sculpture and art, gigs, concerts, an ice rink in Winter, educational centre, local food in the cafe/retaurants, example of regeneration and sustainable living and a land train pulled by a tractor. It even has a rainforest lookout that takes you high above the treetops. As well as beautiful flowers outside you will find plants that provide foods, fuels, medicines and materials.
Bosvigo - on the outskirts of Truro is an amazing house dating back circa 1860's. The Gardens comprise of The Hot Garden, The Vean Garden, The Walled Garden and the Woodland Walk. This is how the Owner describes the year - Spring bulbs and Hellebores, summer herbaceous borders, autumn finale of 'firework' colours. In 2011 the 100th episode of the Rosamunde Pilcher series was filmed here.
Burncoose Gardens and Nursery - at Gwennap is a 30-acre woodland garden and has achieved gold medal displays at Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows. The Nursery stocks a wide range of shrubs and herbaceous plants. The gardens are situated high up but still flourishes with camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, over 20 species of bamboo and also a diverse range of other plants. A garden to visit all year round.
Trerice - just 3 miles from Newquay. This is a 6 acre garden with space to find seclusion at any time of the year. It has been owned by the National Trust since 1953. Play Cornish skittles with the family on the parade ground, see the herbaceous borders and wander amongst the fruit orchards. Visit the tea-room in the barn, the shop in the house and the Tudor vegetable garden.
Lots of our gardens have tremendous interest in the Autumn as well such as Ellis Gardens at Polyphant, Wave Cottage at Lerryn, Half Acre at Boscastle, Primrose Farm at Skinners Bottom and Kennall House at Ponsanooth. The Homestead close to Helston is 7.5 acres and has a Wildflower Wood with over 1000 trees and a further 800 trees for a shelter and wildlife habitat.
Many Cornish Gardens belong to the National Gardens Scheme which publishes the Yellow Book each year which is a guide or 'bible' to garden visiting.
If you have visited a garden which you loved and think should be included in our list then just send us an email naming the garden and we will include it in our list.