Three Cornish gardens you must visit

December 17th, 2015

Cornwall has something for everyone, but the main focus is its beautiful natural landscape which varies from coastal coves to sparse moorland. There are a host of magical spots to explore and experience the history of Cornwall and here are three you must include when taking advantage of our luxurious accommodation in Cornwall.

 

 

Lost Gardens of Heligan

This historic garden has been part of the Tremayne family for over 400 years and is one of the most beautiful, romantic and mysterious gardens situated in England.

This legitimate secret garden remained hidden for decades after nature took over and the overgrowth ran wild. It was during the First World War when all the gardeners were sent off to fight in the trenches that the brambles regained what was once theirs.

This was a common occurrence across large estates across England during the wars, but what sets Heligan apart is the fact the land was never sold and developed meaning it lay hidden. It wasn’t until the 1990s when they discovered a tiny room, buried under fallen masonry in the corner of one of the walled gardens. On the wall, a motto etched into the limestone walls in barely legible pencil read “Don’t come here to sleep or slumber”, with the names of those who worked there signed under the date August 1914. This inspired them to bring these once glorious gardens back to life in every sense and to tell, for the first time, not tales of lords and ladies but of those “ordinary” people who had made these gardens great, before departing for the Great War.

The gardens are open every day except Christmas Eve and Day, and are a dog friendly attraction.

 

Trebah Gardens

This gorgeous Cornish Valley has just over four miles of footpath for you to stretch your legs and admire the breath taking beauty that surrounds you. They have their own secluded beach that nestles on the Helford River. In spring you can view the spectacular 100-year old Rhododendrons and Magnolias. During winter you can see the Hydrangea Valley, with its vibrant colours a sight to behold. This garden also hosts spectacular trees and flowers that are native to the southern hemisphere.

The gardens are open daily, dog friendly and also has a café serving delicious snacks and hot drinks.

 

Tremenheere Sculpture Garden

This is a relatively new attraction in Cornwall, coming to life in September 2012. It’s nestled in a beautiful valley which hosts exotic and sub-tropical plants. The landscape consists of woods, streams and views of the ocean which when combined with artworks such as sculptures and art installations provide an unforgettable experience.

There was a serious amount of planning when it came to development with an emphasis on the viewer, when walking around the gardens you feel different moods depending on what you’re looking at, and with the sub-tropical emphasis within the gardens it means there are flowers in bloom all year.

Dogs are welcome on leads. The gardens are closed from January 4th – February 12th.