This is the truly magical 200 acre gardens that were forgotten for decades
- UK Hidden Gems
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
While Cornwall is well known for its beautiful Mediterranean style beaches, peaceful scenery and tasty fish and chips, visitors are missing something special if they do not explore this hidden gem.
Found near Mevagissey, these gardens cover more than 200 acres and are full of history, character and different styles.
They form part of the grand Heligan estate, which belongs to the Tremayne family.
First created for the family’s pleasure in the mid 18th century, the gardens were abandoned after the First World War.
Once alive with wildlife, they became overgrown and forgotten until an important restoration project brought them back to life in the 1990s.
One of the Lost Gardens of Heligan most impressive features is a chain of spotless lakes, kept full by a pump that is more than a century old. The site is also home to Europe’s only remaining pineapple pit.
The unique sights go on and on, including giant rhododendrons and camellias, vegetable plots, an Italian garden and, most famously, the UK’s only outdoor jungle.
Set in a steep valley, this jungle has a warmer climate than gardens further north, which allows tropical plants from around the world to flourish.
The Jungle continues to grow and now includes one of the longest Burmese rope bridges in Britain.
Hanging 100 feet above the jungle floor, it offers a thrilling experience and gives visitors a bird’s eye view of ancient ferns if they are brave enough to cross.
A recent visitor called the gardens a “truly magical and captivating place” on TripAdvisor.
They wrote: “Absolutely incredible place with fascinating jungle like gardens, beautiful stretches of trees and of course the unique and delightful statues.
Other features include great panoramic views, a lovely little farm with donkeys, pigs and turkeys, plus beavers if you’re very lucky.”
Another reviewer praised the gardens for offering “a world of horticultural surprises”. They added: “It was surprising how popular this place is, especially as the entrance fee is quite high. Well, I can say it is worth every penny.
“There is so much to see, including historical areas, scenic views, rare animals and a huge variety of plants. There is even a space for children to burn off energy while they play. Highly recommended.”
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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