The Esplanade Hotel Blog

If you’re looking for day out with a difference, Cornwall has many hidden gems ready to be unearthed.

Tucked away in the Cornish countryside is a particularly mysterious place where adventure awaits: The Lost Gardens of Heligan.

Just a short drive from The Esplanade Hotel in Newquay, it offers a magical day out for nature lovers and explorers of any age.

A long-forgotten garden

Heligan was part of an old estate that was lost to time after WW1, only to be rediscovered and turned into Europe’s largest garden restoration project. Today, Heligan is 200 acres of woodlands, wildlife and wonders.

The Productive Garden tends to over 300 varieties of mostly heritage fruits, vegetables and salads throughout the year to supply Heligan Kitchen. Check it out for lunch and enjoy seasonal flavours grown on site. You can’t get produce more local than that.

Walking among the Pleasure Grounds you’ll go on a world tour of plant species from Italy to New Zealand and be treated to incredible views of St Austell Bay from the Northern Summerhouse.

Play in nature

Kids will love the Heligan Play Meadow where they can climb, swing and slide in Cornwall’s largest outdoor play area, and search out critters in Buggingham Palace - the UK’s biggest bug hotel.

Heligan is also where you’ll find the animals of Home Farm. Say hello to many native breeds of sheep, goats, pigs, cattle and more, and pop by the Poultry Orchard to see traditional chicken breeds living life beneath the branches of Cornish apple trees. This working farm champions sustainable land management, helping others to learn about the importance of working in harmony with habitats.

Search for giants

As you move further into Heligan, pick up ancient pathways where you’ll find iconic Heligan sculptures within the Giants Woodland Walk. Be sure to listen out for buzzing bees at the Bee Observation Hide.

For a true adventure, delve into the exciting world of the sub-tropical Jungle and search out exotic plants from around the world. Pick your way across the longest Burmese Rope Bridge in Britain and marvel at awe-inspiring views as you pass clustered bamboo, glassy ponds and towering palms.

Down in the Lost Valley, keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife that call Heligan home. Robins and squirrels could be hopping about, and if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of the elusive kingfisher as it flits around the river.

Lifelong memories beyond the day trip

Heligan has magic to offer whatever the season. But if visiting in November and December, be sure to purchase your ticket for the Heligan Night Garden, where lights and lanterns illuminate a glittering trail.

Make a trip to the Lost Gardens of Heligan for family memories filled with tales of giants, old curiosities and unforgettable time spent in nature.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan is approximately 20 miles (a 45-minute drive) from The Esplanade Hotel.