Cornwall is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a plethora of breathtaking destinations to explore. Thanks to its warm microclimate, you’ll find tropical plantings that are rarely seen elsewhere in the UK. The stunning landscape serves as a magnificent backdrop for gardens and historic estates.
The gardens in Cornwall that we’ve compiled below are perfect for visitors of all ages. Young children will delight in pretending to be dinosaurs among the prehistoric-looking tree ferns, while teenagers will appreciate the Instagram-worthy settings. Couples can immerse themselves in the tranquility and romance of these gardens, while grandparents can enjoy watching the fun unfold before treating everyone to a delightful lunch at the café!
On hot summer days, when everyone flocks to the beach, we often find ourselves drawn to these idyllic spots. The allure of dappled shade, lawn games, and sand-free sandwiches is simply irresistible. Moreover, many of the gardens listed below are dog-friendly, so if you’re staying in one of our pet-friendly Cornish holiday accommodations, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from!
In St Ives
Within St Ives itself, there are two fantastic spots where you can escape the hustle and bustle of summertime without even getting in your car. The Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden is a personal favorite of ours, offering a chance to spend a few hours surrounded by some of the most groundbreaking works of 20th Century British art.
While many visitors to St Ives are familiar with Hepworth’s old studio, not many venture to Trewyn Subtropical Gardens. This hidden gem is tucked away behind Barclays Bank on Bedford Road and is the perfect spot to enjoy a pasty on a sunny day. Take a moment to admire the subtropical plantings, the view of the church, and John Milne’s sculptural memorial to his friend Barbara Hepworth while you rest your legs.
In St Ives itself, you can find two wonderful spots to escape the hustle and bustle of summertime without needing to use your car. Our personal favorite is the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden, where you can spend a few hours surrounded by some of the most groundbreaking works of 20th Century British art. Another hidden gem is Trewyn Subtropical Gardens, often overlooked by visitors to the seaside town. Located behind Barclays Bank on Bedford Road, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a pasty on a sunny day. Take a moment to admire the subtropical plants, the view of the church, and John Milne’s sculptural memorial to Barbara Hepworth while you rest your legs.
If you’re looking for luxury accommodations in the heart of St Ives, ‘The Courtyard’ offers a unique collection of properties arranged around a private gated courtyard. These four properties can be rented individually and combined, they can accommodate up to 22+2 guests. What’s more, they are conveniently located right next to Trewyn Gardens.
Just a short drive from St Ives, you’ll find the proud town of Penzance, nestled on the picturesque shores of Mount’s Bay. For first-time visitors, a trip to St Michael’s Mount is a must. The terraced gardens surrounding the iconic island castle are truly breathtaking and some of the most stunning in the entire UK. The exposed rocks retain heat, giving Cornwall’s famous sub-tropical microclimate an extra degree or two! Please note that only assistance dogs are allowed on the island.
On the outskirts of Penzance, there are three fascinating and distinct gardens waiting to be explored. All of them are easily accessible from our spacious rural properties, such as The Holding House (which is pet-friendly, of course!)
Discover the natural beauty of Tanglewood Wild Garden, where the untamed surroundings invite nature to flourish around its four enchanting ponds. Whether you’re a family with adventurous dogs or a couple seeking tranquility, Tanglewood offers something for everyone. Please note that Tanglewood is not accessible for disabled or wheelchair users, and young children should be supervised. On weekends, a delightful cake hut appears, but feel free to bring your own picnic too!
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the dog-friendly Godolphin, a must-visit for garden enthusiasts. Managed by The National Trust, this historic estate boasts gardens of national significance. From the meticulously maintained King’s Garden with its box hedges to the herbaceous borders dating back to Tudor times, there’s an abundance to discover within the manor house grounds and the wider estate, perfect for leisurely dog walks.
Start planning your Cornwall getaway by browsing our exquisite selection of holiday properties. If you’re bringing your furry friend along, simply select the ‘pet-friendly’ option, and you’ll find a wealth of fantastic locations to choose from!
