Cornwall Gardens

Gardens in Cornwall are renowned for their beauty and from St Mawes, a good number of the best are easily accessible. 

Located in St Mawes, Lamorran Gardens looks out to St Anthony’s Head and lighthouse. Planted in 1982, Lamorran Gardens is inspired by Mediterranean and Japanese influences. Water features are ever present throughout this landscape both as a backdrop and in the form of pools and running streams. On your tour of Lamorran Gardens, you’ll be able to explore I Gardini Secreti and other intimately secluded areas. More attractions here include a Japanese water-garden, a wishing well, woodland areas, temples, archways and bridges.

Board one of the classic river boats at  St Mawes and visit Trelissick, one of Cornwall's finest woodland gardens situated at the head of the Carrick Roads. This 25-acre garden owned by the National Trust has year-round colour and interest and is famed for its exotic plants, Camellias, Magnolias, Rhododendrons and many rare Hydrangeas. Open throughout the year Trelissick also features a renowned art and craft gallery, restaurant and shop and plant sales.  Arrive on a Fal River boat and you will receive discounted entry.

Two glorious valley gardens situated by the Helford River offer a breath of fresh air for any gardener. The coastal footpath to the tranquil Helford River estuary is easily accessible from the Swanpool or Maenporth car parks in Falmouth and the walk is as delightful as the gardens are.  

Your walk will take you past rocky headlands, quiet coves and beaches to the quaint fishing village of Durgan where, between the fisherman’s cottages, a modest gate marks the entrance to Glendurgan. One of two glorious Helford gardens created in the 1800s, Glendurgan boasts a famous laurel maze, fine tree ferns and camellias.

The second of the gardens, Trebah, is a short way along the coast and has its own private beach. This intimate valley garden has a pair of stunning Chusan Palms and stunning views across to Helford Point. Take time to explore the giant gunnera passage, rhododendron valley and the camellia walk. Passenger ferries connect Durgan and Trebah and they cross regularly between Helford Point and the Ferry Boat Inn at Helford Passage.

One of Cornwall's prettiest gardens is to be found at Trewithen, midway between St Austell and Truro (also midway between roads accessing the Roseland).  Other gardens not so well known perhaps but well worth exploring are the Trist House Garden at Veryan on the Roseland, the Demonstration garden at Probus and a little further afield, Pine Lodge Gardens in St Austell.