Of all the attractions in Cornwall, gardens are so plentiful that the county has been described as the Garden Capital of the World. Thanks to the mild coastal climate, there are many diverse and spectacular gardens, from the ultra-modern Eden Project, to the more traditional, created by Victorian plant-hunters of the 19th century. Next time you are visiting Cornwall, gardens should be high on your to-do list. CLC Trenython Manor in Cornwall, is proud of its award-winning green initiatives, and takes great care of its privileged natural environment making it one of the best CLC World Resorts & Hotels properties to stay in.
Let’s look at some of the best gardens to visit in Cornwall:
Eden Project – Educational and Entertaining
This vast global garden is located in giant biomes – the world’s largest greenhouses – set in a deep crater. Here, you can experience four of the world’s rainforest environments in the Rainforest Biome, with its stunning canopy walkway and dazzling orchid display. There are thousands of plant species from around the world, and, for the brave, England’s longest and fastest zip wire makes for an unforgettable experience.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan – Romance and Nostalgia
These 200 acres of Cornwall gardens were created by the Tremayne family in the 19th century, but fell into neglect after the First World War, and were only rediscovered and restored in the 1990s. In the Victorian Productive Gardens, over 300 varieties of fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown. In the Pleasure Grounds, historic pathways lead through rhododendron boughs and Maori-carved tree ferns. Children will love exploring the Jungle, from
its banana plantations and towering bamboo, to the Burmese rope bridge, one of the longest in Britain.
Trebah – Sub-Tropical Paradise
This sub-tropical paradise near Falmouth has a stunning coastal backdrop. Highlights are the 100-year-old rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias, the giant rhubarb, blue and white hydrangeas and spectacular champion trees.
Trewithen Gardens – Enchanting Garden Walks
Believed to be one of the loveliest gardens in England, boasting an extraordinary collection of camellias, rhododendrons and magnolias, as well as 24 champion trees. There are also woodland walks and picnic areas to be enjoyed.
Bonython Estate Gardens – Tropical and Traditional
This unique blend of tropical and traditional horticulture is widely considered one of the most interesting gardens to visit in Cornwall. There are three lakes, herbaceous borders in a walled garden and a vast array of plant and flower varieties, along with views over the apple orchards towards the lake.
Pencarrow House and Garden – A Horticultural Treasure
Combining ancient woodlands with formal landscaping, the gardens enjoy dazzling displays of camellias and rhododendrons, bluebells and wild garlic, hydrangeas and ancient trees. Highlights include a sunken Italian Garden, an ice house and a grotto believed to have been a secret meeting place.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens – For Alfresco Art
If you appreciate art as well as plants, these are wonderful gardens to visit in Cornwall, where large-scale exotic and sub-tropical plants harmonise with contemporary sculptures and artworks, creating a fascinating and evocative display.