Lost Gardens of Heligan

Unveiled in 1992 from under decades of overgrowth, the Lost Gardens were restored on a shoestring budget and hailed by The Times as “…the garden restoration of the century”. Today the mysterious gardens and estate offer over 200 acres for exploration.

Discover romantic Victorian productive gardens and pleasure grounds along winding paths laid out over two centuries ago. Step back in time and journey across the world beneath the historic rhododendron boughs of Sikkim, beside Maori-carved tree ferns in New Zealand, to explore our Italian Garden and Alpine inspired Ravine.

Get lost in exotic outdoor Jungle whilst adventuring along raised boardwalks past giant rhubarb, banana plantations and through tunnels of towering bamboo. This exuberant garden hosts a riot of luxuriant foliage, outstanding trees and inspiring views, drawing the imagination on a journey far from our temperate shores.

The Giant’s Head, Mud Maid and Grey Lady all wait to be discovered along the Woodland Walk to delightful bird song. This sheltered path comes to life for children and adults alike as the woodland sculptures reveal themselves, emerging gently from the undergrowth, in a beautiful natural landscape.

Ancient woodlands and grazed pastures are managed to promote wildlife, which is celebrated at our pioneering Wildlife Project, offering an intimate view of native fauna.

The licensed Heligan Tearoom provides a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for morning coffee, Cornish cream teas and delicious home-cooked lunches, incorporating fresh seasonal produce from the gardens and estate. The on-site bakery supplies fresh bread, scones and cakes daily. Whilst the Heligan Shop offers quality items, many of which have been designed, made, written or grown by staff on-site, providing an exclusive memento of a visit to the Lost Gardens.

Heligan is so much more than a garden restored; its own special atmosphere encourages contemplation and inspiration, satisfying the broadest range of horticultural and wildlife interests.

Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome to the Gardens all year round.

Open all year: all year except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.