Trewidden House and Garden is what it says it is: two separate entities. What we mean by this is that you either head to this estate on the outskirts of Penzance to stay in the beautiful manor house or you go there to tour the delightful gardens.
Forming part of the historic Bolitho estate, the Grade II listed Trewidden House is a 19th century manor house that’s available to book all year round and also plays host to weddings and family get-togethers. It’s still used by the Bolitho family and anyone who wants to stay in this luxurious building needs to check out Trewidden’s website for availability and prices.
The 15-acre gardens are a different affair. It’s recommended that you put a few hours aside to walk around them and take in the spectacular plants and natural beauty during your trip to Penzance. In short, Trewidden showcases one of the most beautiful spring gardens in Cornwall.
It was created by the Bolitho family in the 19th century and is home to a collection of more than 300 camellias, azaleas and magnolias alongside some of the most awe-inspiring tree ferns that you’ll see anywhere in Europe. A group of soft tree ferns that are native to Australia sit within an ancient open cast tin mine here. They were planted in 1902 and mesmerise all-comers. Head gardener Richard Morton has also, in recent years, collated a ‘National Collection of Rhododendron’ at the site too.
A maze of paths lead visitors around an array of different tranquil corners of the gardens where you will see prize-winning shrubs and different types of tree species, some of which are more than 100 years old. Other rare plants from lands afar are peppered across the site and there’s an ace Trewidden Trail for young explorers who can hunt for clues across the estate.
Pre-arranged guided tours may be available but you’ll need to call the venue first to find out about these. Sample some of the best local food and Cornish cream teas for miles around at the venue’s tearoom and there’s also a shop that’s worth a browse, especially for the locally grown plants that are for sale. So, head to Trewidden House if you want a luxury stay in a historical property but if you’re just looking for a few hours of natural beauty followed by a cream tea, Trewidden Garden is the destination for you.