Lost Gardens of Heligan
A 200-acre horticultural marvel, once lost and now rediscovered, featuring a subtropical jungle, Victorian gardens, and whimsical sculptures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens bloom, fewer crowds
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Best Time
Gardens bloom, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 200-acre horticultural marvel, once lost and now rediscovered, featuring a subtropical jungle, Victorian gardens, and whimsical sculptures.
"A slice of magic in Cornwall, with so much to see and explore for everyone!"
Wear sturdy shoes! 👟
Paths can be challenging, especially when wet. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast grounds .
Allow ample time ⏳
With 200 acres, you'll need at least 4-6 hours to explore properly. Don't rush the experience .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Jungle
Southern part of the gardens
Experience a subtropical paradise with giant Gunnera and tree ferns. A truly unique tropical UK garden!

The Mud Maid
Near the Jungle
A whimsical and enchanting sculpture covered in moss and plants, blending seamlessly with nature.

Victorian Productive Gardens
Central area
Discover heritage vegetables, pineapple pits, and a glimpse into historical gardening practices.
Heligan Night Garden
Specific seasonal event
An enchanting, magical winter experience with mesmerising lights and a festive atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Gardens
Parking and Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! 👟
Paths can be challenging, especially when wet. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast grounds.
Allow ample time ⏳
With 200 acres, you'll need at least 4-6 hours to explore properly. Don't rush the experience.
Check for seasonal events ✨
The Heligan Night Garden is a must-see winter spectacle.
Dog-friendly exploration 🐕
A great option if you don't want to leave your dog behind; they're welcome in all areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! 👟
Paths can be challenging, especially when wet. Good footwear is essential for exploring the vast grounds.
Allow ample time ⏳
With 200 acres, you'll need at least 4-6 hours to explore properly. Don't rush the experience.
Check for seasonal events ✨
The Heligan Night Garden is a must-see winter spectacle.
Dog-friendly exploration 🐕
A great option if you don't want to leave your dog behind; they're welcome in all areas.
Satnav caution! 🗺️
Some visitors report tricky narrow lanes. Reprogram your satnav or follow clear signage carefully.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vastness and beauty of the Lost Gardens of Heligan, praising the diverse landscapes from the jungle to formal gardens and the enchanting sculptures. It's a highly recommended day out for families and dog owners alike, offering a magical experience. However, some find the additional parking fee on top of entry a bit steep, and navigation can be tricky on narrow lanes.
"Wow! What an amazing garden! There's so much to see. There's a great selection of cakes in the cafe.
The gardens are in 2 parts, one is the more formal area and the other is the park. They are all very pretty and have lots to offer. The paths around the main area are mainly easy to walk on but as you get out onto the wider estate it gets more challenging.
This garden is probably at It's best in spring but has lots to offer all year round.
The only thing is is that there Is no discounts for Oap's, carers etc. You have to pay to park which is £3.50 for the day."
Hannah Wild
"Our satnav kept taking us around in circles looking for this place which we thought was the real reason for the title of “Lost Gardens” In addition, some of the tight little lanes with high Cornish hedges were tricky enough but we arrived at one that was only wide enough for a quad bike!! Sat nav reprogramming required! Lovely place when we got there and the plants and tree collection was amazing. Everything clean and tidy. My only reservation was that signage could have been clearer."
Stephen Mitchell
"Great place to visit with something for everyone. We choose to visit here over The Eden project as its dog friendly in all areas and we didn’t want to leave our dog all day. There were acres of beautiful gardens, sculptures and tropical jungle. There’s a farm animal area and wooden play park for the kids. Brilliant day out and cherished memories made.
Only issue is paying for parking when you still have to pay for entry. Not a big issue but it would have been nice to expect this prior to turning up and knowing you will be required to park in the farm shop premises next door. This is not very clearly communicated and it made parking more complicated than necessary.
Definitely worth a visit!"
Nicola
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are located in Cornwall, England. While many visitors drive, be aware that the approach can involve narrow Cornish lanes, and satnavs can sometimes be unreliable.
Public transport options are limited, making driving the most common method. If traveling from further afield, consider flying into Newquay Airport and then hiring a car.Some visitors have reported that their satnavs led them in circles, and the narrow lanes with high hedges can be tricky. It's advisable to have a good map or double-check your route beforehand to avoid getting lost.
Public transport to the Lost Gardens of Heligan is not straightforward. While buses do serve the general area of St Austell, you may need to arrange onward travel or a taxi from the nearest bus stops. Many visitors opt for private transport due to the gardens' rural location.
Parking is available, but it is an additional cost on top of your entry ticket, typically around £3.50. Parking is often at the farm shop premises next door, which isn't always clearly communicated prior to arrival.
Unfortunately, there are no discounts mentioned for parking. The fee is generally applicable unless you make a purchase in the farm shop cafe. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current parking information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply, and while the exact prices can vary, they are generally considered worth the cost for the extensive experience.
There are no discounts for OAPs or carers mentioned, so be prepared for the standard admission price.It is generally recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Check the official Lost Gardens of Heligan website for online booking options and current pricing.
Based on reviews, there are no specific discounts mentioned for seniors (OAPs) or carers. It's always best to check the official website or contact the gardens directly for the most up-to-date information on any available concessions.
Family ticket options are often available for attractions like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, offering a cost-effective way for families to visit. Check the official website for details on family packages and pricing.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official Lost Gardens of Heligan website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The gardens boast 200 acres of diverse landscapes, including a subtropical jungle, Victorian productive gardens, formal gardens, and woodland walks. You'll find unique sculptures like the Mud Maid and Giant's Head,
heritage plants, and a farm animal area.Yes, it's a great family day out! There's a farm animal section and an excellent wooden play park with climbing frames and a bouncy trampoline.
The jungle area is also a hit with kids.Absolutely! The Lost Gardens of Heligan is dog-friendly in all areas, making it a perfect choice if you want to bring your furry friend along for the adventure.
Visitors often spend 4-6 hours, or even a full day, exploring the vast grounds. Some reviewers suggest it's a place you can get lost in for hours.
The main garden areas have mostly easy-to-walk paths, but as you venture onto the wider estate and into the jungle, the terrain becomes more challenging. Sturdy walking boots are recommended, especially if it's wet.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a cafe offering a selection of cakes and refreshments.
You can also find food options at the farm shop on-site. Many visitors enjoy a coffee and cake break during their visit.While not explicitly stated, many large gardens allow picnics in designated areas. It's advisable to check with the gardens directly or look for signage upon arrival regarding picnic policies.
The cafe typically offers a range of options. For specific dietary needs, it's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff upon your visit or check their menu online if available.
There is a cafe and a farm shop that serves refreshments. For more extensive dining, you might need to explore options in nearby Mevagissey or St Austell.
The farm shop often sells local produce and goods, providing an opportunity to take a taste of Cornwall home with you. This can include jams, chutneys, and other artisanal products.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jungle area offers dramatic, lush backdrops.
Don't miss the whimsical sculptures like the Mud Maid and Giant's Head, the vibrant flower borders, and the charming farm animals. The gardens are beautiful in all seasons.Absolutely! With diverse flora, fauna, and unique garden features, it's a paradise for nature photographers. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including baby geese.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most public gardens and attractions to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the official Lost Gardens of Heligan website or contact them directly for their drone policy.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the gardens or wildlife.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Spring and summer offer vibrant colours, while autumn brings rich hues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit