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A couple holding hands and wearing waterproof gear walk up a path covered in autumn leaves, with Lanhydrock house behind them
Autumn walks in the grounds at Lanhydrock | © National Trust Images/James Dobson
Cornwall

Lanhydrock Garden explorer trail

The garden at Lanhydrock is full of hidden details to discover, a glorious mix of history and nature that can be experienced throughout the year. Its foundations were laid in the 17th century, but much of the layout you see today dates from the Victorian era. Discover an array of fascinating historical features on this circular walk through the semi-formal landscape.

Winter closing at Lanhydrock

Please note that the gardens at Lanhydrock are now closed for the winter and will re-open on March 1 2025.

Total steps: 8

Total steps: 8

Start point

Lanhydrock gatehouse, grid ref: SX08637

Step 1

How hot is 'blood heat'? What is the hottest temperature the Lanhydrock thermometer can measure?

Step 2

Can you find where Spot lived? What kind of animal do you think Spot was? Would you be comfortable living here?a

Step 3

Can you find the oldest part of the house? How many years ago was this doorway carved? Can you think of anything that is older?

Step 4

The parterre is laid out in very precise shapes. How many are there? Can you name them? Do you think the parterre is symmetrical?

Step 5

Stop and look around you. How many colours can you see? Can you name them all?

Step 6

Where can you find the time and the seasons in the same place? Do you recognise any of the bronze flowers?

Step 7

The Thatched Cottage had no running water. Can you imagine living with no taps, no bath and no shower? Can you find where the gardener collected his water from?

Step 8

One hundred years ago there was a glasshouse here in the higher garden. Can you work out where it used to stand?

End point

Lanhydrock gatehouse, grid ref: SX08637

Trail map

Map of Lanhydrock garden explorer trail, Cornwall
Lanhydrock Garden explorer trail | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

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View across mown lawns to Lanhydrock’s gatehouse, shrouded in mist and low autumn sun
Place
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Lanhydrock 

Magnificent late Victorian country house with garden and wooded estate.

Bodmin, Cornwall

Partially open today
Family enjoying an autumn walk across the countryside with trees in the distance at Lanhydrock, Cornwall
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Lanhydrock Respryn Ramble 

Look out for kingfishers, otters and traces of Cornwall's tin mining past, on this beautiful circular walk along the River Fowey and on through Lanhydrock's ancient woodland.

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Lanhydrock Parkland walk 

Get to know Lanhydrock's varied parkland on this moderate circular walk, as you explore its paths through woodland, riverside and open pasture – plus the striking Beech Avenue.

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DistanceMiles: 3.1 (km: 4.96)
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Lanhydrock Great Wood and Beech Avenue walk 

Lanhydrock is home to a wide variety of veteran and ancient trees, perfect homes for wildlife – and your companions on this gentle circular walk.

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DistanceMiles: 2.5 (km: 4)

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We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.

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