One of Cornwall’s hidden gems, the Antony Woodland Garden is one of the counties finest. An International Camellia Garden of Excellence. The 100 year old Asiatic Magnolias tower over Westdown valley, while beneath rhododendrons and camellias add splays of colour. In season the understory is carpeted with snowdrops, primroses, bluebells and wild garlic, providing a contrast against the rich green grass. Over the last two decades interesting pieces of contemporary sculpture have been added to the garden, including a ferocious looking Green Man, by Cornish sculptor Tim Shaw.

Superb early 18th century mansion set in parkland and fine gardens. Landscaped by renowned Georgian garden designer, Humphrey Repton. The grounds include the formal garden with the National Collections of Hemerocallis and Camellia Japonica and fine summer borders. The woodland garden (owned privately by the Carew Pole Garden Trust) has an outstanding display of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and magnolias, and surrounding woods provide delightful walks. Also of note are the 18th-century dovecote (awaiting renovation) and 1789 Bath Pond House.

The highlight though has to be the simply stunning riverine views along the Lynher, where egrets, cormorants, shelduck and oyster catchers swoop low over the water. On a still day the garden is one of the most tranquil places in Cornwall. Read more…