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Glorious gardens and houses to visit in Cornwall this summer

While we might be surrounded by stunning beaches, did you know there are a number of spectacular gardens and houses to visit in Cornwall, too? With our sub-tropical microclimate and rich heritage, the county is a haven for garden lovers and history enthusiasts alike – all thanks to the numerous exotic gardens and historic estates brimming with character.

So, whether you’re after fragrant blooms and sculpted landscapes, or stately homes nestled in the sweeping countryside, here are some of our favourite gardens and houses to visit in Cornwall.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

No list of gardens in Cornwall would be complete without mentioning the legendary Lost Gardens of Heligan (and when you visit, you’ll see why!).

Tucked between Pentewan and Mevagissey, this once-forgotten estate was re-awakened in 1990 to become Europe’s largest garden restoration project. Today, it boasts a 200-acre paradise of ancient woodlands, Victorian greenhouses, and sub-tropical jungles (complete with giant rhubarb and towering tree ferns).

On your visit, dive deep into a wealth of horticultural history and natural beauty. Perfect for families, garden enthusiasts, and photographers alike.

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens

If you prefer more contemporary landscape design, head to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens near Penzance. With a striking fusion of large-scale sculptures by internationally-renowned artists, and a landscape that includes panoramic vistas of St Michael’s Mount, it’s where art meets nature.

Alongside woods and streams, you’ll find an evolving programme of contemporary artwork tucked away in this sheltered valley – complete with gallery, shop, nursery, and restaurant. A must-see for art lovers and explorers looking for something different to the more traditional estates.

The Eden Project

Perhaps the most iconic of Cornwall’s horticultural attractions is the Eden Project, near St Austell.

These world-famous biomes are a global showcase of sustainability and biodiversity, where visitors can explore rainforest canopies, Mediterranean terraces, and ever-changing exhibitions on ecology.

While kids will love the zip lines and interactive displays, adults can enjoy the architectural feats and rare plant collections. As an all-weather destination, it’s the perfect place to visit on a rainy day, too.

Lanhydrock House and Garden

Moving from gardens to grand houses, Lanhydrock, near Bodmin, offers a step back into the Victorian era with a lavish country estate and extensive woodlands.

Today, the site is owned by the National Trust, who maintain both the house and manicured gardens and wider parkland. Inside the Jacobean mansion, you’ll find a treasure trove of historic detail, from opulent family rooms to significant works of art.

Lanhydrock is also the perfect spot for cyclists, with exhilarating woodland trails for the adventurous, plus gentle family-friendly routes for the less experienced. You can even hire bikes on-site!

Trerice

Minutes from The Plume, discover Trerice – an Elizabethan manor house near Newquay, once home to the Arundell family.

Owned by the National Trust, this is a smaller scale property to the likes of Lanhydrock, but have no doubt that this house is an underrated Cornish gem!

The beautiful knot gardens and orchard add to its timeless appeal, and the building remains little changed over the centuries (thanks to long periods of absentee owners). Today, you can explore interiors rich with 16th-century details, as well as the peaceful surrounding grounds. Perfect for a quiet afternoon wander, away from the summer crowds.

Cotehele

A Tudor house with Medieval roots, you’ll find Cotehele perched high above the River Tamar, surrounded by picturesque woodlands and gardens.

Little-changed over the last five centuries, today, the estate offers a unique glimpse into centuries past, with tapestries, armour, and family heirlooms lining its historic halls.

Outside, enjoy the riverside walks, formal terraces, orchards, and a working mill, celebrating a true blend of nature and heritage. With play areas, cafes, and a bookshop, it’s the perfect family day out.

Fun fact: At Christmas, Cotehele’s gardeners build a 60-foot garland from thousands of flowers grown on the estate – a truly magical display!

Book your stay at The Plume

With so many gardens and houses to visit in Cornwall, The Plume could be the perfect base for your summer adventures.

Plus, with our central location and luxury hotel rooms, our country pub offers a comfortable retreat ideally located to explore all that Cornwall has to offer.

After a day of garden strolls and house tours, switch off in our warm and characterful setting, before retiring to rest amid Egyptian cotton sheets – ready for another day of cultural exploration.