Thursday 10 May 2012

Lost Gardens of Heligan - and Goodbye Cornwall


Well here we are at the final day of my trip around Cornwall's gardens. And what better way to end than with one of the best! The gardens were neglected from the World War One until 1990, when they were dicovered by Tim Smit and John Willis. A massive restoration programme began, and the garden first opened to the public in 1992. My first visit was about three years after that. The gardens have come a long way since then. You know you are about to discover somewhere special when the pots in the reception area are planted like the ones above and below.

I like the trunks of Rhododendrons as much as the flowers.

Rhododendrons with their skirts neatly lifted.

No birds around here!

This border hints at the fabulous jungle to come.


Pictured above is a collection of bee boles, which are the precursor to the bee hive. Straw structures called Skeps were kept in the recesses.

Camassias look good in a gravel bed.

A novel idea for a container!

A more formal part of the garden.



The beautiful Jungle Garden






Phormiums line a pathway near the jungle.

So that's it from Cornwall. Thanks for joining me on my journey around this stunning county!

8 comments:

  1. It is one the best Martin! Although I think it's about time they drop off the word 'Lost' from their name, as its well rediscovered and almost fully restored already :) Can't wait for our turn to go to Cornwall!

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    Replies
    1. I agree, but I guess it brings in more visitors, and maintains a sense of discovery that children probably enjoy.

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  2. I really like the bee boles. So much more interesting than the honey bee boxes we have. Also the rhododendrons are amazing. I didn't know they got that big. Very architecturally interesting. And I never expected to see palm trees in Britain.

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    Replies
    1. A fully mature rhododendron is a magnificent sight.

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  3. The Rhododendrons trunks are stunning! I love how architectural they look. The long shot of the Rhododendrons puts things into perspective. AMAZING!

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    Replies
    1. I'm a real rhododendron fan, although I can't grow them as my soil is not acidic - I just have one in a pot!

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