The Lost Gardens of Heligan, near Mevagissey in Cornwall, are one of the most popular botanical gardens in the UK. The name of the gardens is derived from the Cornish word- helygen meaning ‘willow tree’. The gardens created by members of the Cornish Tremayne family extend to some 80 acres. Today, it is the site of the largest garden restoration in Europe, the extraordinary plant collection together with exotic glasshouses and mild Cornish climate makes it a popular tourist attraction. Heligan manor was first built in the 1200s. With historic planting over 150 years old, the pleasure grounds are also a home to the National collection of Camellias and Rhododendrons introduced to Heligan pre-1920. In 1914-18, the Heligan house was tenanted as it was used by the American troops as a base, and the shelter trees were cut down for the war effort. The gardens were neglected after the First World War, and only restored in the 1990s, a restoration that was the result of several popular television programs and books.
“Creative Commons The Lost Gardens of Heligan. By Ian Knox, licensed under CC 2.0
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are so much more than a garden restored; its own special atmosphere encourages exploration and deep thought, satisfying the broadest range of horticultural and wildlife interest. Not only this, it also promotes local networks of sustainable access routes, linking impressive industrial and horticultural heritage sites with stunning coastal, moorland and woodland habitats.
“Creative Commons The Italian garden pond at the Lost Gardens of Heligan. By Northmetpit, licensed under CC 2.0
The gardens now boast a fabulous collection of aged and colossal rhododendrons and camellias, a series of lakes fed by a ram pump over a hundred years old, highly productive flower and vegetable gardens, an Italian garden, and a stunning wild area filled with original state-looking sub-tropical tree ferns called “The Jungle”.
“Creative Commons Giant’s Head / The Lost Gardens of Heligan. By Rob Young, licensed under CC 2.0
“Creative Commons The Lost Gardens of Heligan – geograph.org.uk. By Ian Knox, licensed under CC 2.0
The gardens also have Europe’s only remaining pineapple pit, warmed by rotting manure, and two figures made from rocks and plants known as the Mud Maid and the Giant’s Head. This garden flowing with enthusiasm, hosting a riot of luxuriant foliage and outstanding trees, exotic plantings and inspiring views takes us on a journey of discovery and exploration. This Cornish jewel lets you lose yourself amongst towering bamboo tunnels and banana plantations, travel along the snaking boardwalk past ‘giant rhubarb’ and palm-lined avenues and discover a world of adventure. Below: Inspirational short video of The Lost Gardens of Heligan Take a trip for yourself and discover the delights of The Lost Gardens of Heligan, explore, be inspired and for brief moment, allow yourself to get lost in its green embrace. You may also like:Top Ten Show Gardens: RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2013 Article written by Kanica Walia
This article was originally submitted to Landscape Architects Network
If this is your first time on the new site, please click "Forgot your password?". Follow the steps to reset your password. It may be the same as your old one.
