Lost Gardens of Heligan a real find in Cornwall
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is mysterious and magical. The Cornwall estate disappeared beneath thorns before the outbreak of WW1 but was rediscovered in 1990 to become Europe’s largest garden restoration project. The 200 acre paradise attracts wildlife, garden lovers, and anyone who just loves a good mystery.
More than gardens, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are a botanical, archeological and historical wonder tucked onto a hillside surrounded by quaint English villages.
But make no mistake about it: Whether you are a fan of hiking, history, flowers, botany, mysteries, or stories of restoration, the Lost Gardens (www.heligan.com) are for you, kids and adults alike. The most riveting part of how these pristine, working gardens rose like a Phoenix from decades of neglect will fascinate you as it did us.
Lost Gardens of Heligan brief history
In sum: The 81-hectare (200-acre) garden area was first mentioned in the 12th century when the Manor was built. The Tremayne family purchased it in 1569, and it is still owned by the Tremayne estate. Over the centuries, gardens and structures were built, vegetable gardens and fruit orchards established, greenhouses constructed, and ponds and theme gardens designed. But the First World War was the beginning of the decline in 1914. It fell into total disrepair later in the century.
It wasn’t until 1990 that Tremayne heir John Willis brought businessman and Eden Project founder Tim Smit to the now-jungle. Foraging and bushwhacking, they discovered collapsed structures, overgrown fountains, and the remains of once-meticulous gardens. Historical sleuthing and research led them to photos that helped them piece together what the jungle once looked like to help them restore it as closely as possible to what it was.
The Times newspaper dubbed the restoration project “the garden restoration of the century,” and it indeed is. After years of repair and renovation (which continues to this day), management has done a wonderful job not only with presenting beautiful gardens but also highlighting educational opportunities. We loved the photos and stories in various areas that showed before and after, and discussed construction and restoration demands, plus any changes made to the original.
Of course, the Lost Gardens of Heligan can also be enjoyed just as gardens: They are an opportunity for a great walk and outdoors escape. Although on a beautiful day there are lots of people, there is a certain respect for Heligan that makes it possible to find quiet corners – or just to enjoy peace on a corner of a lawn, savoring the work that has returned these expansive gardens to a place of splendor.
Prices: Adults GBP 15 (about USD $19) with discounts for seniors, students and families. If you are going to be dropping in more than a couple of times, an annual “Friends of Heligan” pass at GBP 35 (about USD $44) is a deal.
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HITT Tip: Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to properly enjoy strolling around most of the gardens. If you want to take a picnic (or buy supplies at the Farm Shop or restaurants there) and hang out on one of many expansive lawns or hidden benches, give yourself more time. Kids will also love the discovery games scattered throughout the gardens as well as swings and playgrounds.
HITT Tip: Don’t miss the Lost Gardens of Heligan Jungle rope bridge, thought to be the longest such bridge in Britain at 100 feet. It takes you on a sometimes wobbly but happy journey across the jungle basin (22 feet up) with views of tall ferns and tropical plants.
HITT Tip: The largest nearby town is Mevagissey – also a worthy visit in its own right. Wander around the working docks and through the narrow winding streets. And don’t forget to enjoy some famous Cornish ice cream (rich and buttery). Or, if you’re in need of a light afternoon meal, perhaps indulge in a Cream Tea (a.k.a. Devonshire Tea) that traditionally includes scones, clotted cream, jam and of course tea.
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The lost gardens of Heligan really looks worth for relaxing in nature. I would love to stroll around beautiful flowers and especially walk along that rope bridge. The whole place is very photogenic.
It is a wonderful place to lose yourself in for a few hours or even a day. And the rope bridge is such fun!
Lovely post. It’s so nice to see historic places restored so that new generations can learn about them and appreciate the past.
And appreciate the current too as a result of the restoration. So much to learn from in these gardens.
I had no idea about that jungle rope bridge. 22 feet up, and the longest of its kind in Britain, you say. I have a fear of heights, but this one doesn’t sound that bad.
Even with a fear of heights I think you would be able to manage this bridge … it honestly doesnt feel that high. But it is fun.
That is quite an undertaking of gardens to restore! I can imagine that even in disrepair it was quite beautiful. Would be a fantastic place to visit with my kids, they would love the rope bridge.
It is amazing to read and learn the history of these gardens and the work that was put in to restore them. And yes, this place is a haven for families. I suspect they would LOVE the rope swing too … Therese did, but then she’s just a big kid at heart. 😉
The Lost Gardens of Heligan look beautiful. But what is really fascinating is its history dating back to the 12th century. Such a heritage place to visit with some or the other fascinating story in each and every corner. The hanging rope bridge looks really a thrilling experience.
As with so many places in Europe, it is the history that adds to the story, to be sure.
I’ve been down to Cornwall a few times but mostly for the beaches and the surf and haven’t taken the time to explore further. I would love to head back down to this region to discover more!
You need to check out these gardens … they are stunning. And frankly, the town of
Mevagissey is pretty darn cool too.
Looks so beautiful especially with all that yellow, my favorite color. I am sad I didn’t discover this historical place when I visited Cornwall in 2014!
Oh my if yellow is your favorite color, you would have been in heaven. The photo only shows a small amount of the expansive flower spread. You’ll just have to go back Carol!
What a beautiful place. I can well imagine that you can spend a day there and discover something new again and again. For me, this would be the perfect place to relax and feel good.
Susanne
Susanne, you could get lost in here wandering among the flowers and plants for a day easily. It is a wonderfully peaceful escape.