Explore Cornwall’s Gardens this Autumn

Tash Murch

We may be in the midst of the summer holidays but we can’t help looking forward with excitement to what the Autumn may bring. There is nothing like seeing the warm, autumnal shades that highlight the changing of seasons.

One of the best ways to experience autumn's beauty is by visiting some of Cornwall’s stunning gardens, with colourful trees and blankets of fallen golden leaves. You are still able to hold on to the summer heat too, within one of Cornwall's many subtropical gardens.

What is more perfect than a day exploring hidden gardens and admiring picturesque views, followed by an autumnal evening stroll along Porthmeor beach or a cosy evening in your luxury self-catering apartment?

Here are a few of our favourite gardens to visit around Cornwall...

Trewyn 

It may be small, but Trewyn subtropical gardens are a tranquil escape just moments from the buzz of the harbour. Named after Barbara Hepworth’s studio, this little garden is home to a memorial to Hepworth, alongside a variety of Subtropical plants and flowers. A perfect little escape no matter the season and just a 10-minute walk from your luxury apartment.

 

Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Gardens

Immerse yourself in local history by visiting the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Museum & Sculpture Gardens. The gardens are full of sculptures and plants which were lovingly planted and positioned by Hepworth herself throughout her lifetime.

Don't forget as a Sail Lofts guest, you can enjoy free entry into the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Gardens and Tate St Ives too. Tickets are bookable through the Sail Lofts office, allowing you to easily explore the gardens which are only 10-minutes away from your self-catering apartment. 

 

Tehidy Country park

They may not technically be gardens, but Tehidy country park, only a 35-minute drive from St Ives, is the largest woodland area in West Cornwall. Home to a large variety of plants and wildlife there are multiple paths, and areas to explore where you will be able to enjoy nature at its best whilst wandering its 250 acres of woodland. To end the day, head to Tehidy’s café to enjoy a bite to eat or treat yourself to an ice cream and relax in the picnic area.

 

Lost Gardens of Heligan

If you are thinking of heading out to explore Cornwall further, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, located near St Austell, offers 200 magical acres of beauty to explore. As the name suggests these gardens were left undiscovered for years, and once found in 1990 have since been nurtured back to life. With a selection of gardens and an estate to explore, you will be spoilt for choice with a large variety of plants, home-grown produce and wildlife too.

 

Tremenheere Sculpture Garden

Just a 15-minute drive from your self-catering apartment, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens are situated overlooking St Michaels Mount. A collaboration of sculptures from internationally renowned artists, large-scale exotic plants and sub-tropical planting means you are in for a unique and inspiring day out. Following a day exploring the gardens, you may be feeling a little peckish, Tremenheerre Kitchen is great for a spot for a morning coffee, a delicious homemade lunch or an afternoon tea. The Sunday Roasts here are also extremely popular.

 

Trengwainton Gardens

A beautiful garden in its own subtropical microclimate, with sea views across Mounts Bay, Trengwainton Gardens offer a perfect location for a quiet escape, family picnic or place for a stroll amongst nature. The gardens are home to plants from all around the world, and some that have been planted there for nearly 100 years.

 

Trebah Gardens

Take a day trip around the coast to the Trebah Gardens near Falmouth, where you will find yourself surrounded by exotic plants, magical footpaths and even a private beach, perfect for a peaceful escape. After exploring the gardens, why not spend the evening sat in Trebah’s amphitheatre and enjoy one of the many performances staged throughout the year. Please see Trebah's website for a full listing of events.