There are a good few gardens that are open to the public across Cornwall. Plus, there’s a decent handful of National Trust properties. Each one boasts its own charm and unique history. And Trelissick Garden has charm and history in buckets.
Trelissick lies on its own peninsula in Feock, a coastal parish about five miles south of Truro. The estate, sprawling over more than 300 acres of countryside, lies next to the River Fal, within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its Grade II listed house was designed around 1750 and remodelled in the 1820s before being further extended in the late 19th century. It was mostly developed by a local family who made their fortune in the 18th century Cornish copper mining industry. In 1955, it was acquired by the National Trust.
It’s the garden and grounds at Trelissick that bring the visitors in. The rhododendrons that feature across the garden make for a spectacularly colourful sight with their bright flowers, as do the azaleas. The flowering cherries, camellias and hydrangeas also add to this rich palette when they’re in bloom. Exotic plants like the palm and gingko trees also help create an impressive natural tapestry. Rare shrubs grow around the garden and then there’s the big expanse of parkland that needs to be explored, as well as the array of meandering woodland walks and breathtaking views over the Fal estuary.
Other highlights at Trelissick include the main lawn whose focal point is a majestic Japanese red cedar which was planted in 1898, as well as the Cornish orchard which is overlooked by another focal point of the property: an impressive water tower. Plus, the National Trust team organises lots of things for the kids to do at various times, including activity sheets.
Tressilick also has its own art gallery on the site that features thought-provoking and beautiful works by Cornish artists and there’s a gardening and plant centre. The attraction’s café, Crofters, serves up a scrumptious range of light refreshment, cream teas and hot lunches, all made with local ingredients. Then there’s a gift shop, a second-hand bookshop and even six National Trust holiday cottages for those who want to stay in these glorious surroundings for a little longer. Booking ahead is advised before you step in a wonderful world of nature and tranquillity.