Cornwall’s picturesque villages and sweeping beaches have inspired artists since the Roman occupation. And landscapers and gardeners are no different. Cornwall’s beautiful gardens offer everything from a step back in time to historic English landscapes to exotic gardens filled with plants from all over the world.
At the Reglar Collection we’ve curated a list of our favourite gardens in Cornwall to help you find the best.
Historic English gardens in Cornwall
Trebah
Five miles from Falmouth
This sub tropical garden offers a sunny insight into some of the world’s most impressive plants and flowers. Wind your way through the glorious scents, sights and sounds of the garden along four miles of footpath. Unwind on the quiet sands of Trebah’s private beach or enjoy a show in the outdoor theatre, which is set to re-open in October 2020.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Seven miles from St Austell
Heligan became England’s largest garden restoration in 1990, when the estate was rediscovered, hidden among the brambles which had overtaken it during World War One. This fascinating estate offers 200 acres of walled gardens, ponds, ancient woodlands, productive gardens and even a Jungle.
National Trust gardens in Cornwall
Trerice
Five miles from Newquay
Trerice is a National Trust treasure which takes you back in time to the Elizabethan period. Its beautiful manor house overlooks the tranquillity of this gorgeous landscape. The Knot Garden has been carefully designed to reflect the intricate plasterwork of the Manor’s great chamber and features fragrant lavender and pops of colourful tulips, depending on the time you visit. You can also meander through the wild meadow, wander on the lawns and explore the kitchen garden.
Lanhydrock
Three miles from Bodmin
Lanhydrock features an imposing high Victorian country house which is surrounded by perfectly preserved, historic gardens. Careful planning and a creative flair keeps this spectacular garden in colour year round. It’s one of the most beautiful National Trust gardens in Cornwall. Longer walks take you into the ancient woodlands and along the riverside paths, while closer to the house there is a formal parterre and higher gardens which afford a breath taking view over the estate and its surrounding landscape.
Cornwall gardens with an international twist
Tresco Abbey Garden
Four hours from Penzance, by boat. Helicopters and small sea planes are also available
Tresco Abbey Garden will transport you to a world of white sandy beaches and clear waters which feel a world away from the rest of the UK, just 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall. This tropical oasis is home to 20,000 plants which come from over 80 countries and lead you down to the beautiful coast. The garden originated in the 19th Century and features vast, swaying palm trees, a variety of succulents and mesmerising colours you won’t find in many English country gardens.
Glendurgan
Six miles from Falmouth
Glendurgan is one of the National Trust’s most beautiful gardens in Cornwall. It lies close to Trebah, and it’s possible to visit both in the same day. This gorgeous informal garden is full of delightfully colourful flowers and plants, which lead you down to a private sheltered beach. In spring you’ll find native wildflowers, while pretty ponds host hundreds of native species. There’s also a maze, which is constantly changing.