The best gardens in Cornwall

Cornwall is overflowing with amazing places to see and exciting things to do; discover glorious golden beaches, quaint towns, action-packed family adventures and vibrant gardens. You may be familiar with one of Kernow’s best-loved gardens, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, but there are several others of note that you’ll want to add to your local bucket list. 

Today, we’re here to share with you a few of the best gardens in Cornwall to visit in preparation for your next stay in one of our Cornwall cottages.

Cottages in Cornwall

Glendurgan, Falmouth

The National Trust grounds of Glendurgan are home to a number of exotic plants, wildflower meadows and adventure trails: it’s a fantastic day out for all ages. The floral displays from February onwards are remarkable and change every month or so as the season develops, meaning that the landscape is ever-changing. For something a little more adventurous, explore the winding ‘living puzzle’, which dates back to 1933, and see if you can navigate your way to the thatched summerhouse at the centre before heading over to the rotating rope swing, first used more than 100 years ago.

Falmouth cottages

Lost Gardens of Heligan, Mevagissey, near St Austell

200-acres of natural paradise await on a visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan – the story of which dates back to the 1200s. Having been lost in wild overgrown brambles and ivy after the outbreak of WWI, it wasn’t until the 1990s that the grounds were rediscovered, and restoration began to return the land to its former glory. Now, visitors flock to the estate to revel in its glory, with productive gardens, pleasure grounds and the ‘jungle’, all offering a glimpse into the past with a magical twist. Keep your eyes peeled in the Lost Valley & Ancient Woodland in the estate for the iconic sculptures that bring the natural world to life.

Mevagissey cottages

Trebah Garden, Falmouth

Trebah Garden, a sub-tropical paradise right by the coast, is an incredible place to explore when visiting Cornwall. Wander beneath the floral canopies, through the ‘Bamboozle’ maze and into the water garden taking in the vibrant colours and Champion Trees that line more than four miles of footpath. Make a day of your trip by visiting the secluded beach of Trebah, and the Minack Theatre where you can find a wide variety of entertainment, as well as the theatre being an impressive feat of architecture.

Falmouth cottages

Enys Garden, Penryn

Within Enys’ 30-acres of gardens, you’ll find an array of stunning spots, which change throughout the year. For example, in the spring, the bluebells in Park Lye are the main draw, whilst in June, the Meadow Walk is a beautiful sight with all the striking ox-eye daisies along the paths.  Little ones will love the sequoia area, flower garden and bamboo den where their imaginations can run wild beside the floral displays and towering trees.

Penryn cottages

Trewidden Garden, Penzance

Dating back to the 19th century, Trewidden is a gorgeous 15-acre garden that comes alive with a rainbow of colour throughout the year. Most people come to see the impressive camelia collection, the Wilson 50 Karume azaleas - more commonly known as rhododendrons - the magnolias and the tree ferns – all of which have a fascinating history that offers a glimpse into the past of the gardens. Plant enthusiasts will enjoy a little shopping spree here as a memento of their trip with the opportunity to take a little piece of Trewidden home with them.

Penzance cottages

Lanhydrock, Bodmin

The estate, gardens and parkland at Lanhydrock are great for those who like to explore. Take a free tour of the grounds and learn how the gardens were planted and about the fascinating things growing on the grounds. Pick one of three circular walks and take the time to spot the resident wildlife and grand trees, or hop on your bike and cycle through the inspiring setting instead. If you’re a keen runner, why not take part in the incredibly scenic park run that takes place every Saturday?

Bodmin cottages

Discover more of Cornwall

Aside from the stunning gardens, Cornwall has a number of other fantastic things to do for all the family. 

Browse our full collection of Cornwall cottages today to find the perfect base from which to explore, and don’t forget to share any photos from your trip with us on The South West Through a Lens!

Cottages in Cornwall