Only 25 miles from Kingfisher Cottage
Lost to the brambles of time since the outbreak of WW1, this Sleeping Beauty was re-awakened in 1990 to become Europe’s largest garden restoration project. Today Heligan’s 200 acres are a paradise for the explorer, wildlife, plant-lover and garden romantic. We have visited many times and on the last occasion were lucky enough to see a grass snake slithering across the lake.
History and Restoration
At the end of the nineteenth century Heligan’s thousand acres were at their zenith, but only a few years later bramble and ivy were already drawing a green veil over this “Sleeping Beauty”. The outbreak of WW1 was the start of the estate’s demise as its workforce went off to fight in the trenches; many sadly never to return.
Twenty-five years ago, The Lost Gardens of Heligan were rediscovered from the brambles of time. Today it remains one of the most loved and romantic gardens in the UK, appreciated as much for its beauty and mystery as for the ground breaking restoration project.
Victorian Productive Gardens and Pleasure Grounds beckon, along winding paths laid out over two centuries ago. The Jungle takes you on a sub-tropical journey through bamboo tunnels and under majestic tree ferns, giant rhubarb and bananas whilst the estate reveals a lost world of traditional and rare breeds, wildlife and ancient woodlands.
Heligan is a garden for all seasons, so whether you plan to visit in the hazy buzz of mid-summer, or the tranquillity of winter, you are guaranteed a unique experience.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a member of The Great Gardens of Cornwall, a group of the finest Cornwall gardens on offer. Should you be planning to visit more than one Great Garden, make sure you pick up a Great Gardens leaflet to take advantage of the discounted entry offer.
For further information and prices visit https://www.heligan.com
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan, St.Austell, PL26 6EN