What is there to see at the Lost Gardens of Heligan?
History of Lost Gardens of Heligan
With most of its caretakers lost in the First World War, the beautiful gardens of the Heligan estate lay abandoned and weed-ridden for almost a hundred years.
In 1990, they were resurrected to their former glory in a restoration project. Today, the eclectic gardens, one of Britain’s most popular botanical sites, make for an otherworldly and unforgettable day of exploring.
The Pleasure gardens
The Pleasure gardens at Heligan are over 200 years old, with a fantastic collection of plants and flowers from around the globe.
See a stunning collection of camellias and rhododendrons, which thrive in Cornwall’s mild climate, and explore the Melon Yard, a sundial garden, and the Northern Summerhouse, dating from 1770 and with incredible views across St Austell Bay.
Jungle and the rope bridge
Heligan’s jungle is filled with tropical ferns and exotic palms, brought in by Victorian plant hunters over a hundred years ago. The collection is carefully curated to this day.
Explore the leafy canopies, the avenues of palms and then follow the trails of raised paths across waterlily-studded ponds. Spot giant rhubarb, bananas and bamboo and the country’s only planted group of Wollemi Pines. Then experience the jungle from above on the famous 100ft swinging rope bridge, if you dare!
The estate and lost statues of Heligan
As you wander through the wider estate, you will see three statues. They go by various names – the Sleeping Goddess, the Mud Maid, the Giant’s Head, the Moss Maiden, the Grey Lady – and appear to grow from the earth itself, encased in ivy leaves and turf.
Walking through the estate you’ll find acres of peaceful woodland, including the Lost Valley, which is bursting with colourful bluebells each spring. The area is home to many species of rare wildlife including kingfishers, otters, hummingbird hawkmoths, barn owls and bats – see what you can spot on your walk.