Our Favourite Gardens in Cornwall
Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the UK, each with its unique characteristics and features that make it a must-visit for any garden enthusiast. From the Lost Gardens of Heligan to the Eden Project and Tresco, each garden has its own charm. But what are the differences between all our favourite gardens in Cornwall?
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a beautiful example of restoration and regeneration of an old garden. The gardens were originally established in the 18th and 19th centuries but fell into disrepair after World War I. In the 1990s, the gardens were rediscovered and restored, becoming one of the most popular attractions in Cornwall.
The gardens cover over 200 acres, with woodland walks, formal gardens, and a productive garden. The garden features a beautiful Italian garden, a wildflower meadow, and a jungle garden filled with exotic plants. The garden’s standout feature is the beautiful Melon Yard, which was used to grow pineapples in the 19th century.
The Eden Project
The Eden Project is a unique garden that is dedicated to the conservation and education of plant life. The garden is built on an old clay pit and features two large biomes that house plants from around the world.
The biomes are the world’s largest greenhouses, and they house plants from the rainforest, the Mediterranean, and other regions. The garden is home to over 5,000 different plant species, making it one of the most biodiverse gardens in the world.
Tresco Abbey Garden
Tresco Abbey Garden is a beautiful garden located on the island of Tresco. The garden is home to plants from all over the world, with a focus on plants that thrive in a mild climate.
The garden is designed to showcase plants in their natural habitat, with themed sections that include a Mediterranean garden, an Australian garden, and a South African garden. The garden also features a beautiful collection of succulents and cacti, making it a must-visit for any succulent enthusiast.
Other Gardens in Cornwall
In addition to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Eden Project, and Tresco Abbey Garden, there are several other beautiful gardens in Cornwall you must explore. These include:
Trebah Garden
The tunnels of vibrant colour lead down to a beautifully secluded beach on the Helford River and the 4 miles of footpaths guide you through utterly memorable canapes of exotic blooms.
From the 100-year old rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias in spring to a glorious haze of pale blue hydrangeas in autumn, Trebah is a magical garden throughout the year.
Caerhays Castle Gardens
A beautiful garden that is home to a collection of rare and exotic plants. It has been transformed since the early 20th century into a treasure trove of exotic plants from Chile, China, New Zealand and many other wonderfully diverse habitats.
If you can combine a visit to the gardens with a private tour of the castle, you will be in for a real treat. The castle has been lovingly restored into a stunning family home.
Glendurgan Garden
Lose yourself in the three valleys of Glendurgan Garden – full of fun, natural beauty and amazing plants. Discover the giant rhubarb plants in the jungle-like lower valley and the striking contrast of the spiky arid plants basking in the sunny upper slopes. Wander through the garden down to the beautiful hamlet of Durgan on the Helford River and you’ll find a little oasis of calm.
Trelissick Garden
Located on the banks of the River Fal, Trelissick is famous for its camellias, hydrangeas, magnolias, and rhododendrons, the terraced garden is set within 375 acres of wooded parkland, offering wonderful panoramic views making this a paradise for walkers.
Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the UK, each with its unique features and characteristics. From the restored beauty of the Lost Gardens of Heligan to the biodiverse Eden Project and the mild-climate plants of Tresco Abbey Garden, each garden offers something different to explore and enjoy. So whether you’re a garden enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to spend a day, Cornwall’s gardens are not to be missed.