The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Exploring the Mystique
Imagine walking along a winding path below giant tree ferns that feel like something out of Jurassic Park. Or roaming through a woodland where bluebells carpet the forest floor and moss-covered sculptures emerge from the landscape. It feels as if you’ve stumbled upon a forgotten world...
But wait...this isn’t the set of a fairytale, but the Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of the most magical gardens you’re ever likely to find. For decades, Heligan lay hidden from the world, its grand estate gardens abandoned after the First World War. What had once been a thriving estate had slipped into slumber, lost to all but memory. That was, until a chance discovery in the 1990s led to its extraordinary revival.
The Hidden Gem of Cornwall
Overlooking the fishing village of Mevagissy in Cornwall, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are living proof that a little human determination can work wonders. What was once a neglected estate is now a thriving wonderland, bursting with colour, wildlife, and stories from the past. Wandering through Heligan feels like stepping into another time, where every winding path holds a piece of history waiting to be uncovered. And just in case you’re wondering - the name “Heligan” comes from the Cornish word for willow tree “helygen”.
Why You Need to Visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan
Heligan isn’t just a beautiful place to roam - it’s a goldmine of inspiration for gardeners, nature lovers, and anyone who loves a good story of transformation. Whether you’re dreaming of bringing a little of Heligan’s magic into your own garden or just craving a quiet moment to soak it all in, there’s something here for everyone. The garden’s journey from forgotten wilderness to flourishing paradise is proof of what passion, patience, and a love for nature can achieve.
The Magic of a Secret Garden
There’s something about hidden gardens that stirs the imagination, and Heligan has that magic in spades. Tucked away from the rush of modern life, it’s a place to explore, pause, and reconnect with nature. Every winding path and overgrown archway holds a sense of mystery - an invitation to discover beauty in the unexpected.
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The Revival of a Lost Paradise
Back in 1659, the Tremayne family bought the Heligan estate, and by 1692, the grand house we see today was built. The family remained its stewards for centuries, shaping the gardens into something truly special. But everything changed with World War One. The estate’s dedicated team of gardeners went off to fight, and with no one to tend the grounds, nature quickly took over. By the time the Second World War ended, both the house and gardens had fallen into a state of neglect, lost beneath a tangle of ivy and brambles.
Fast forward to the 1990s when an extraordinary discovery was made. Hidden beneath decades of overgrowth lay a forgotten world - a once-glorious garden, waiting to be brought back to life. What followed was one of the most remarkable garden restorations in history, transforming Heligan into one of England’s favourite gardens.
The restoration was a monumental task, involving the careful removal of overgrown vegetation and the painstaking restoration of historic structures. Where most saw ruin, a passionate and dedicated group saw potential.
Every corner of Heligan holds a piece of its past, making it not just a garden, but a living, breathing time capsule of horticultural history.
Discovering the Gardens
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a world of their own. Around every corner, there's something interesting to discover, whether it's the lush, jungle-like walkways, the perfectly manicured formal gardens, or the quiet charm of wilder, more natural spaces. If you’re a plant lover you’ll find plenty of rare and unusual specimens throughout the garden. And for those looking for an escape from the everyday, Heligan offers a place to reflect, recharge, and feel utterly inspired.
The Jungle
Step into Heligan’s Jungle, a world of towering tree ferns, giant gunnera, and lush palms which will make you wonder if you’re in Cornwall or Colombia. This subtropical paradise is alive with colour, scent, and the gentle murmur of trickling streams. Boardwalks weave through dense foliage, leading you past banana trees, bamboo groves, and enormous leaves that seem to belong to another world.
One of the highlights? The 100-foot-long Burmese rope bridge, which stretches high above the jungle canopy. Crossing it feels like an adventure in itself - swaying gently as you step, offering views over the lush greenery below.
Something very special to look out for (particularly for the Aussies!) are the Wollemi Pines. This pine species was only discovered in 1994 deep in Wollemi National Park in NSW, Australia. In 2012 some were brought to Heligan where they’re now thriving.
The Jungle is a testament to both Heligan’s rich plant collection and its unique microclimate. Sheltered in a deep valley, this area is naturally warmer and more humid than the rest of the gardens, creating the perfect conditions for exotic species that rarely thrive in the UK. So go ahead and lose yourself in a lush green escape where every turn reveals another botanical beauty.
The Mud Maid and Giant’s Head: Heligan’s Most Enchanting Residents
Deep within Heligan’s woodland, hidden among the ferns and moss, two of the garden’s most magical figures lie waiting to be discovered - the Mud Maid and the Giant’s Head. These moss-covered sculptures feel like something straight out of folklore, as if the garden itself has come to life.
The Mud Maid, with her peaceful, sleeping face, emerges from the earth draped in a living cloak of ivy and moss. She changes with the seasons - lush and green in summer, bare in winter. Created by artists Sue and Pete Hill, she captures the essence of Heligan’s lost-and-found history, a reminder of how nature reclaims, reshapes, and renews.
Not far away, peeking through the undergrowth, is the Giant’s Head. His wild, grass-covered ‘hair’ shifts with the seasons, making him look different each time you visit. With his eyes half-hidden beneath the leaves, he feels like he’s been watching over Heligan for centuries, a guardian of this once-forgotten land.
Both sculptures add a touch of mystery and whimsy to the gardens, and visitors of all ages love them. They’re not just sculpture - they’re part of Heligan’s story, blending seamlessly into the landscape and sparking the imagination of everyone who stumbles across them.
The Woodland
Heligan’s woodland is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and just take it all in. In spring, a carpet of vivid bluebells stretches beneath the trees, turning the whole forest floor into a haze of soft blues and purples. Sunlight filters through the canopy, dappling the winding paths, while birds sing overhead and the air hums with life. It’s peaceful, a little wild, and full of hidden corners to explore. Whether you’re here for a quiet walk or just to breathe in the fresh, earthy scent of the woods, it’s the perfect spot to escape for a while.
The Walled Gardens
Step through the gates of Heligan’s Walled Gardens, and you step back in time. This is where the estate’s Victorian gardeners once worked their magic, growing everything from vibrant flowers to heirloom fruits and vegetables with meticulous care. Today, it’s still a hive of activity, growing 300 varieties of vegetables, fruit and herbs that supply the Heligan kitchen. There are also exotic fruits (including Europe’s only remaining pineapple pit) in the Victorian glasshouses.
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The garden walls themselves are more than just a boundary - they’re part of the story. Climbing roses tumble over old brickwork, espaliered fruit trees stretch their branches in perfect symmetry, and neatly ordered vegetable beds showcase the craftsmanship of traditional horticulture. Every corner of this space reflects the skill and dedication of the generations of gardeners who have worked here.
The Pleasure Grounds
Heligan's Pleasure Grounds, were established over two centuries ago for both enjoyment and as a status symbol. Explore the different gardens and you’ll find everything from an ancient Douglas Fir (the Witches Broom) to century old rhododendrons and camellias. There’s also an Italian Garden filled with Mediterranean plants and Maori-carved tree ferns in the New Zealand garden. Heligan is full of whimsy and a touch of magic – and creatively named gardens like the Crystal Grotto. With a name like that how could NOT want to see it? This intricate collection of gardens, interconnected by historic pathways, showcases a magnificent array of plantings, each area exuding its unique atmosphere.
Heligan’s Home Farm: A Living Link to the Land
Heligan’s Home Farm is a nod to the estate’s working past, where heritage breeds and traditional farming methods keep history alive. Wander through the farmyard, and you’ll meet rare-breed pigs, cattle, sheep, and poultry, all part of Heligan’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and conservation. From the gentle clucking of chickens to the contented grunts of Tamworth pigs rooting in the mud, there’s a real sense of life and purpose here. The farm isn’t just about nostalgia - it plays a key role in supplying fresh produce and free-range meats to Heligan’s Kitchen & Bakery, keeping the connection between land and table as strong as ever.
A Wild and Wonderful Haven
Heligan isn’t just a feast for the human senses – the local wildlife find it a pretty nice spot to live too! You’ll spot butterflies dancing between wildflowers, birds flitting through the trees, and the occasional frog tucked away in the undergrowth. From buzzing meadows to quiet ponds, every corner of Heligan is alive with creatures big and small.
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The garden’s commitment to conservation means these spaces aren’t just beautiful; they’re carefully managed to support a huge variety of wildlife. Ancient woodlands provide shelter, wildflower-rich grasslands feed pollinators, and ponds create the perfect habitat for amphibians. It’s a place where nature is truly at home - a living, breathing example of how gardens and the wild can thrive side by side.
The Best Time to Visit Heligan
No matter the season, Heligan is always magical, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see.
Spring (March - May) – The gardens come alive with waves of daffodils, magnolias, and bluebells. This is the perfect time to experience the Woodland Walk in full bloom and see the Jungle shaking off winter with fresh, vibrant growth.
Summer (June – August) – A riot of colour takes over the walled gardens and borders, while the Jungle feels lush and exotic. This is the best time for long, leisurely visits.
Autumn (September – November) – Expect fiery reds, oranges, and golds as the leaves turn, creating a stunning backdrop for a peaceful walk. The kitchen garden is overflowing with harvest produce, and the air carries that crisp, earthy scent of the changing season.
Winter (December – February) – While the flowers may be resting, Heligan in winter has a quiet beauty all its own. Bare branches reveal hidden details in the landscape, and on frosty mornings, the gardens feel truly magical. Plus, winter is a great time to avoid the crowds!
If you do happen to be here during winter, don’t miss the Heligan Night Garden. This award-winning light trail runs from mid-November to early January, inviting you on an enchanting evening journey through beautifully illuminated woodlands and gardens. The mile-long trail features handcrafted lanterns depicting larger-than-life wildlife, glittering tunnels of light, and captivating installations. Santa also puts in an appearance on some evenings! During the day you can enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch.
For the most vibrant experience, visit between April and October, when the gardens are at their peak.
Practical Information for Your Visit
📍 Location: Pentewan, St.Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6EN
Opening Hours
The gardens are open daily with varying hours depending on the season. Be sure to check their website for the latest information.
Tickets
As of 2025, ticket prices are £20 - £28 for adults and £9 - £12.50 for children. There are also family tickets available. Day tickets can be upgraded to weekly passes on arrival. For up to date prices.
There are also annual passes available if you want to visit throughout the year.
The gardens are partners of the RHS and members can enter for free Jan to March and November to December.
Tickets can be purchased at the gate, however it’s advisable to pre-book during school holidays and summer, as well as for the Heligan Night Garden experience. You can order online here.
Facilities
Heligan Kitchen and Bakery: breakfast and lunch, kid’s meals, refreshments
Steward’s House: refreshments, pastries and snacks
Meadow Kitchen: snacks and most importantly – ice cream!
Heligan shop: carefully curated gifts, home furnishings, garden tools and books
Plant centre: for a wide range of plants and seeds
The Food Hall: traditional food gifts and artisan treats
Accessibility: approximately 13 acres of the garden can be accessed by even paths. The Jungle and Woodland are not accessible due to the steep gradient, steps and boardwalks. Manual wheelchairs and two mobility scooters are available to borrow – book in advance. Accessible parking and toilets are also available.
Families: there’s plenty for kid’s to explore in this garden including Cornwall’s largest outdoor playground.
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Top Tips for Visiting Heligan
Allow a minimum of 4 hours for your visit – the gardens are extensive!
Comfortable Footwear: The terrain varies, so wear sturdy shoes to navigate the different garden areas comfortably.
Plan for all weather: the Cornish weather is notoriously changeable. Be sure to bring layers and wet weather gear.
Download the garden map before you go and plan your visit. You can download the garden map at the Heligan Gardens website here.
Where to Eat at Heligan
Exploring 200 acres of stunning gardens is bound to work up an appetite, and luckily, Heligan has some fantastic food options to keep you fuelled during your visit. Whether you fancy a hearty meal, a light snack, or a sweet treat, there’s something for everyone.
Heligan Kitchen & Bakery
For a proper sit-down meal, head to the Heligan Kitchen & Bakery, where the focus is on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients - many grown right in Heligan’s own kitchen garden. Expect hearty soups, homemade pies, fresh-baked breads, and delicious cakes, all made on-site. Visiting on a Sunday? Be sure to book ahead for the Heligan Sunday Roast.
Meadow Kitchen and Steward’s House
If you’re after something quick and casual, the Meadow Kitchen or Steward’s House are a great choice. Enjoy barista-made coffee, Cornish ice cream, and freshly baked pastries.
If you're looking to explore dining options beyond the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the surrounding area offers a variety of delightful eateries to suit different tastes:
The Longstore, Charlestown
Situated in the historic port of Charlestown, The Longstore is renowned for its steak and seafood dishes, combining fresh local ingredients with a modern twist. The relaxed atmosphere and harbour views make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Find out more.
The Sharksfin, Mevagissey
Overlooking Mevagissey Harbour, The Sharksfin offers a diverse menu featuring land and sea options, signature burgers, and tacos. Its family-friendly environment and scenic views provide a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the gardens. Find out more.
Springtide, Charlestown
This seafood restaurant in Charlestown serves fresh seafood and pasta dishes, complemented by a selection of cocktails. With its coastal charm and delicious offerings, Springtide provides a memorable dining experience. Find out more.
The Tartan Fox by Adam Handling, Newquay
For a more upscale dining experience, The Tartan Fox by Adam Handling presents a menu of sustainable British pub food with a luxurious approach. Located between Truro and Newquay, it showcases the best of Cornish produce in a refined setting. Find out more.
Pier House Hotel, Charlestown
Situated in Charlestown, the Pier House Hotel features a popular restaurant and bistro. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes while taking in views of the historic harbour. Find out more.
Teacup Tearoom, Mevagissey
For a quintessentially British experience, the Teacup Tearoom in Mevagissey offers traditional cream teas, light lunches, and homemade cakes in a cozy setting. Find out more.
How to Get to Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are tucked away in the Cornish countryside, just a few miles from Mevagissey and St Austell. Here’s how to find your way:
By Car: Heligan is well-signposted and easy to reach by car. The postcode PL26 6EN will get you there via sat nav. There’s free parking on-site, including accessible spaces and spaces for motorhomes.
By Bus: The 471 bus runs between St Austell and Heligan, with stops in Mevagissey and nearby villages. Check local timetables for up-to-date schedules.
By Train: The closest station is St Austell, about 5 miles from Heligan. From there, you can catch a bus or take a short taxi ride.
By Foot/Bike: If you’re up for a scenic walk or cycle, the Pentewan Valley Trail offers a lovely traffic-free route from Mevagissey to Heligan, winding through woodlands and countryside.
No matter how you travel, the journey is worth it - Heligan feels like a world away, but it’s surprisingly easy to get to!
More to Explore Nearby
Mevagissey
A picturesque fishing village just a short drive from Heligan, Mevagissey boasts narrow winding streets, a bustling harbour, and a rich maritime history. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, enjoying fresh seafood, or exploring local shops and galleries.
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Eden Project
Located near St Austell, the Eden Project is a renowned ecological park featuring massive biomes that house diverse plant species from around the globe. It's both an educational and visually stunning experience, offering insights into sustainability and conservation.
Charlestown Harbour
Famous for its well-preserved Georgian harbour, Charlestown has been featured in numerous films and TV series. Visitors can explore maritime museums, enjoy coastal walks, and appreciate the historic charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Caerhays Castle and Gardens
This historic estate offers guided tours of its stunning castle and expansive gardens, which are particularly renowned for their camellia and magnolia collections. Overlooking Porthluney Cove, it's a perfect blend of history, horticulture, and coastal scenery.
Pentewan Beach
A sandy stretch ideal for relaxation, swimming, and water sports, Pentewan Beach is located near the village of Pentewan. The adjacent Pentewan Valley Trail also offers scenic routes for walking and cycling.
FAQ: Visiting the Lost Gardens of Heligan
❓ How much does it cost to visit Heligan?
The entry fee varies by season but as of 2025 it is £20 - £28 for adults and £9 - £12.50 for children.
❓ Do I need to book a ticket in advance?
Tickets can be purchased on arrival and for most of the year there is no need to book in advance. The exceptions to this are school holidays, summer and the Heligan Night Garden experience.
❓ Are dogs allowed in Heligan?
Dogs on short leads are welcome
❓ Is Heligan wheelchair accessible?
Approximately 13 acres of the garden can be accessed by even paths. The Jungle and Woodland are not accessible due to the steep gradient, steps and boardwalks.
❓ How big is Heligan?
200 acres
❓ What is the closest train station to Heligan?
St Austell
A Story of Resilience
If Heligan teaches us anything, it’s that even the most overgrown and forgotten places can bloom again. Left to nature for decades, this once-lost garden has been lovingly restored, proving that with time and care, anything can be revived. It’s a reminder to look beyond the weeds, to see the potential in the wild, and to appreciate the unstoppable power of nature when given a second chance.
A visit to Heligan is more than just a day out - it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a keen gardener, or simply someone who loves a good adventure, Heligan promises something special. As you wander its winding paths, you’ll feel the pull of history, the magic of nature, and the thrill of discovering something extraordinary around every corner. Like all good gardens, the story of Heligan is still unfolding - and you can be part of it.