The Lost Gardens of Heligan can be called a living depositary of the gardening performed in the 19th century. The gardens were found out in the deserted state by the posterity of the owner, Tim Smit and John Willis. John Nelson was given the responsibility of clearing the gardens. This signaled the ten-year restoration program of the lost gardens, which began in the 1990s and ended in the 2000s. The gardens became the venue for TV programs broadcast. In 2000, the Heligan Gardens received the “Best Outdoor Attractions” 5 star award. The fame of the gardens made people write literature centering them. The gardens also drew the attention of the elite group of the society. For instance, in 1997, HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Cornwall, privately visited the gardens. These were some of the important events in the history of the Lost Gardens of Heligan. The 200-acre property has a lot to offer the visitors. The chief highlights of the park include Giant’s Head, Mudmaid, and Grey Lady. You can spot them while tarrying along the Woodland.
The gardens are divided into three parts: the Northern Gardens, Jungle, and Wider Estate.
- Northern Gardens: These comprise of the Victorian Productive Gardens, and the Pleasure Grounds. The Victorian Productive Gardens supported the Tremayne family in the past, and are now used to support the Heligan Tearoom with fresh produce. The Pleasure Grounds are a perfect place for romantic walks. The section is embellished with 150-year-old paintings and splendid species of plants.
- Jungle: Exotic plants and a riot of foliage are the features of the Jungle at the Heligans.
- Wilder Estate: Ancient trees, ponds, lakes, intriguing birds and animals, are the part of the Wilder Estate.
The Horsemoor Hide and Wildlife Project lets the visitors take a sneak peek into the lives of the inhabitants of the gardens through video recordings done secretly.
Tips
- Wear comfortable footwear if you wish to traverse the entire estate.
- Remember that there is a lack of toilets in the gardens.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan Map
Facts about Lost Gardens of Heligan
- Heligan Manor was constructed in the 1200s.
- In 1596, Sampson Tremayne bought Heligan.
- During the First World War, the Heligan house was used as a recovery hospital for the officers.
- Between the years 1973 and 1974, the house was turned into apartments and sold.
Where is lost gardens of Heligan ?
Sited near Mevagissey in Cornwall, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are easily accessible by various means of transportation. The St. Austell railway station is located at a distance of about 6.3 miles (via B3273 route). Two buses (routes 524 and 525) operated by the Western Greyhound ply from the station to the gardens. The nearest Newquay airport is located at a distance of 20 miles from the gardens. The closest harbor is located in Mevagissey, about 35 mins walk from the gardens. A seasonal ferry connects Fowey and Mevagissey.
Address: Pentewan, St. Austell, Cornwall, United Kingdom, PL26 6EN
Best time to visit Lost Gardens of Heligan
The month of May is the best time to visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan, as the flowers bloom and the weather is pleasant.
Lost Gardens of Heligan Hours
The Lost Gardens of Heligan open throughout the year, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. From April 1 to September 30, the gardens open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while from October 1 to March 31, the gardens open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Lost Gardens of Heligan Tickets
The entry ticket for an adult costs £12, for senior costs £10, for children (age 5 to 16) cost £6, and family (2 adults & up to 3 children) costs £30. Children under 5 years of age are allowed free admission.
More about Lost Gardens of Heligan
What are the coordinates of the Lost Gardens of Heligan?
50.2857° N, 4.8116° W
Which are the interesting places to visit near the Lost Gardens of Heligan?
Minack Theatre, Tintagel Castle, Hall for Cornwall, St Austell Brewery, Blue Reef Aquarium, and Kynance Cove.
England major attractions: Stonehenge, British Museum, Big Ben London, Buckingham Palace, The London Eye, Millennium Bridge, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, London Zoo, Trafalgar Square, Palace of Westminster, Kensington Palace, Lost Gardens of Heligan, Nelson’s Column, Wellington Arch.
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Image Credit : Lee Jones