Glorious gardens
Cornwall is renowned for its beautiful and diverse horticulture, a happy product of the Gulf Stream which drags lovely warm air all the way across the Atlantic Ocean from Mexico. We may be just a few degrees shy of the Mexican heat and enjoy one of the highest levels of rainfall in the UK, but all this makes for some happy plants. Cornwall’s landscape ranges from rugged and windswept to lush and sup-tropical, and these varying topographies are shown off to their best across the region’s gardens. Get some serious inspiration from these amazing places, where talented gardeners nurture this beautiful and challenging environment.
Trelissick House and gardens are set on their own peninsula, bordered by the River Fal. Meandering paths lead through luscious planting, down towards the waters edge. The first iteration of the house was built in the 1750’s, with the gardens being developed in many stages from this date. This has led to a marvellous patchwork of styles and influences, all with a stunning maritime backdrop.
It feels like an obvious entry on the list, but Eden really does provide the wow factor when it comes to its planting. Whether you fancy a stroll around the Mediterranean biome, a sweat through the rainforest or just a meander through the outdoor meadows, this really is a place of inspiration.
Another of Cornwall’s big houses, Lanhydrock is an impressive property surrounded by formal gardens, parkland and woodlands. Colourful planting and Himalayan magnolias frame superb views over the Fowey valley, giving way to rolling countryside. This is a great one for the kids, as cycle trails weave through the acres of woodland and there is plenty of room for epic games of hide and seek!
Heligan is the perfect garden for the romantics out there. The story of a lost world, brought back to life by dedicated dreamers who have created beautiful walled kitchen gardens, jungle adventures and pleasure grounds, who’s plans were first laid out over 200 years ago by the Tremayne family.
Something a little different here, these gardens are inspired by Japanese planting and shaping techniques which focus on combining natural elements to create balance and perfection. A space for contemplation and pause, these gardens have been designed to take you on a journey of the senses.
Pencarrow is something of a unique find, as it has been the family home of the Molesworth-St Aubyns for nearly 500 years. Perched on the edge of Bodmin Moor, the extensive woodlands and gardens have winding woodland walks that take in bluebell meadows, ancient trees, and even an iron age fort.
Tucked into the sheltered Porthluney valley, Caerhays has been in the Williams family since 1855. Spring is the perfect time to visit the gardens, which burst into life in a spectacular display of colour and perfume. The family have a garden diary which has been completed almost daily since 1897 and details the history of the planting and the seasons, a fascinating insight to the development of the plant collections and woodland gardens of this great house.
This stunning location, overlooking St Michaels Mount, is home to a winning combination of exotic planting and inspiring art, all housed in a sheltered valley. The strongly sculptural planting scheme and use of palm trees, ferns and bamboos ensures that the gardens have year-round interest and combine magnificently with the considerately placed sculptures.
Glendurgan Gardens were designed by Alfred and Sarah Cox, with the idea of creating a “small peace (sic) of heaven on earth”. Three valleys lead down to the banks of the Helford River, lined with both exotic plants and wildflowers. The gardens also feature a superb maze, created originally for the local children.
A tiered waterside garden, which tumbles down towards the breath-taking Lamorna Cove. Set over varying levels, this lush cliff-edge jungle has been designed to encourage adventure.
Roam through more than 26 acres of sub-tropical planting, bursting with exotic scents and colours, as you make your way to the glorious and secluded Polgwidden Cove. These house, built in the 18th century, predates the gardens, where development started in 1838. Now in the ownership of a trust, the house and gardens endeavour to be a place of adventure, education and enjoyment.
📸 Photo credits: Chygurno Gardens and Trebah Gardens