Gardens to Explore

Find a tranquil oasis to explore this September

Image by thornhouse.co.uk

Thorn House & Gardens     23mins from Plymouth

It has been said that these gardens boast the ‘Finest Garden View in Devon’. With views spanning the stunning River Yealm and Dartmoor National Park, Thorn House & Gardens is an idyllic spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll past manicured flower beds and unusual trees.

Due to its position near the coast, the gardens naturally have a maritime climate which allows many tender plants to flourish. The rear gardens showcase a wide lawn leading towards the Rose Garden and Formal Walk which is notable for its four great Italianate urns known as the ‘Trentham Vases’. Finish your garden visit with a freshly baked Devon cream tea for £6.

Admission: Adults £10, Children (under 12) Free

Image by Mark Bolton Photography

Mothecombe Gardens     33mins from Plymouth

Situated at the mouth of the Erme Estuary and tucked into the side of the valley, Mothecombe Gardens boasts neat lawns, beautiful flowers and a woodland where you might spot some deer. The gardens are sheltered by the prevailing south westerly winds allowing fragile plants to blossom.

Mothecombe House overlooks the whole garden, a Queen Anne House with additions by Sr Edwin Lutyens. On the south there is a walled garden planted with wisteria, irises and agapanthus and a lawn with an herbaceous border. Grab a refreshment at The School House restaurant located at the car park serving Italian influenced foods and summer BBQ’s.

Admission: Adults £6 (£3 with valid parking ticket), Children 5-17yrs £3

Image by Visit Devon

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens 1hr 10mins from Plymouth

Spread over 64 acres and holding nearly 300 years of gardening history, this botanical garden is a “delight for gardeners”. The park is home to an array of rare and stunning species as well as a Bicton Woodland railway, outdoor and indoor play areas, pedal tractors and crazy golf for the family.

‘The Palm House is made from over 18,000 panes of glass (built 20yrs before The Kew Gardens Palm House) hosting many palms.’ Enjoy a bite to eat at Bicton Restaurant or The Orangery serving a range of options from light snacks to full meals.

Admission: Adults £13,95, Children (2 to 16 years) £10.95

Image by Heligan.com

The Lost Gardens of Heligan    1hr 20mins from Plymouth

Only 30 years ago, the Heligan gardens were lost to the brambles since the outbreak of WW1. A chance discovery uncovered the door to the gardens which led to its restoration. The Lost Gardens now boast over 200 acres of sub-tropical plants, fruit and vegetables as well as wildlife and ancient woodlands.

With interactive events happening throughout the year, there is something for everyone at this tranquil setting. The Lost Gardens is also home to the UK’s only outdoor jungle where exotic plants, luxurious foliage and running water encapsulates you and transports you to a tropical paradise. Don’t leave hungry as there are a wide range of different hospitality options to choose from.

Admission: Adults £22.50, Child (5-17 years) £9.50, Student £12.00