Things to see and do in the garden at Trelissick

Flowers bloom behind a metal garden bench on the main lawn at Trelissick, Cornwall — Garden bench on the main lawn at Trelissick, Cornwall | © National Trust Images/Hilary Daniel

The garden is a place for plant enthusiasts and for anyone seeking a gentle walk. Hidden paths twist through the garden to spectacular maritime views and there is plenty of space for families to enjoy and play as well.

Autumn in the garden

Autumn colour shines in the garden at Trelissick where the trees put on a stunning display with foliage turning to fiery coppers, reds and golds. Cross the bridge to Carcaddon and discover an orchard bursting with around 70 varieties of Cornish apples, take shelter from the showers alongside an old apple press at the heart of the orchard.

The fading summer colours of the hydrangeas become muted but still lovely. Along winding paths bulbs and corms like crocus and cyclamen flower during the autumn months in the main garden and early rhododendrons and camellias will start to flower before the winter months.

The main lawn

The main lawn is at the heart of the garden with sweeping views around the mixed exotic borders. Later in the year ginger lilies, dahlias and bananas create a rich tapestry of flower and foliage.

The focal point of the lawn is the magnificent Japanese red cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) which was planted in 1898, an extremely long-lived species of tree that can grow for over thousands of years.

The Cornish orchard

The Trelissick orchard is yet another peaceful place to explore and enjoy. Originally planted over 20 years ago the orchard is home to several Cornish apple varieties as well as an old apple press, restored to its former glory.

The tennis lawn

The tennis lawn is an open space with incredible views of the Carrick Roads and a summerhouse perfect for taking shelter in, whilst still enjoying the view.

The tennis lawn features a 'ha-ha' where the lawn meets the parkland. This sunken wall separates the grazed fields from the garden and provides a boundary between the two which doesn't spoil the view like a fence would. A staple feature of landscape gardens, it is so-called for the fact it is unseen and coming across it makes you exclaim 'ha-ha' in surprise and amusement.