Spring has sprung, and there’s no better way to embrace the colour changing magic of spring! We’re celebrating with a roundup of the best gardens to visit in the South West, from Cotehele in Cornwall to Dunster Castle in Somerset.
Cornwall
Cotehele
St Dominick, near Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6TA
Cotehele is an atmospheric Tudor house, offering a mill on a historic quay, a large estate to explore, and a fantastic garden with views of the valley. With 14 acres of garden and 12 acres of orchards, there’s plenty to discover. Because of Cornwall’s milder climate, Cotehele’s orchards of some of the earliest to blossom in the country. You can enjoy the spring blossoms from a variety of trees, including apples, Tamar cherries, plums, pears, and walnuts. Cotehele is also home to a variety of daffodils, some of which dating back to the 17th century. These daffodils are currently in full bloom.
Godolphin
Godolphin Cross, Helston, Cornwall, TR13 9RE
An ancient estate incorporating a medieval garden alongside its historic house, Godolphin is home to a 16th century garden dedicated to wildlife conservation. Much of the original layout of the 16th century garden has been preserved, maintaining its unique character. It’s a haven for wildlife such as insects, birds, and bats, and is home to the native Cornish black bee. During the spring, Godolphin Garden transforms into a tapestry of flora, including dog violets, primroses, magnolia, and bluebells. The gardens incorporate the Side Garden, Dry Ponds, the Paddock, and the Orchard, so there’s plenty to explore.
Devon
Overbeck’s Garden
Sharpitor, Salcombe, Devon, TQ8 8LW
Overbeck’s Garden is a hidden paradise of subtropical gardens with views of the infamous Salcombe estuary. Explore an extraordinary variety of plants from Brazil to New Zealand. The array of plants and blooms are from many climatic zones, including Mediterranean and temperate. While you’re enjoying the diversity of flora including palms and ferns, to succulents and Japanese maple, you can witness the breath-taking views of South Devon’s sea.
Buckland Abbey
Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6EY
Discover tranquillity and history at Buckland Abbey’s gardens. Bursting with colour from delicate wildflowers and bold displays of tulips, the gardens are a treat for all senses in the spring. Glorious displays of magnolia and camellia above carpets of spring blossom make Buckland Abbey a unique and special place to visit. By May, wisteria will cover the Cider House Linhay and west side of the Abbey, adding its scented purple blooms to the floral backdrop.
Somerset
Hestercombe House and Gardens
Hestercombe, Taunton TA2 8LG
