Despite living in Cornwall for over three years, I’d never heard of Trebah Gardens until recently. I discovered it’s a hidden gem tucked away by the coast in stunning, leafy countryside just a fifteen-minute drive from Falmouth.
We went on a slightly drizzly day, but the weather didn’t stop us enjoying the four miles of footpaths which wound gently down to Trebah Garden’s own private beach. The beach itself is mostly pebbly but the water was flat and my husband James enjoyed a brisk swim in the sea!
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The gardens themselves are absolutely stunning with hidden treasures to explore around every corner. My boys loved the Giant rhubarb, koi pond and spotting the large fish in Mallard pond. I couldn’t stop admiring the gorgeous plants and flowers which cover the 26 acres of this leafy valley. There was bamboo, hydrangea, 100 year old rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias.
Trebah Garden’s also has an outdoor theatre and they have performances of Shakespeare, music and puppet shows for kids coming up this summer. I also noticed that there are meditation and printing workshops you can book onto as well as yoga on the beach.
Dogs were welcome on leads and it felt very child friendly. There was lots of space for kids to explore as well as two dedicated children’s play areas. We didn’t visit Fort Stuart which is for little ones but my kids (aged 7 and 9) absolutely loved Tarzan’s Camp. Strung up between the trees they had great fun climbing and playing on the nets, ropes and slide.
Trebah Gardens has a fascinating history – it was passed down through notable Cornish families before the gardens were developed in the 1800’s. During World War Two the beach was concreted and in June 1944, 7500 American soldiers set sail from there for the D-Day assault landing on Omaha Beach. In 1961 it was bought by racing car driver and designer Donald Healey. Trebah Gardens is now owned by an independent charity and they welcome 100,000 visitors from all over the world every year.
I enjoyed reading the signs dotted around the gardens about its history, as well as the information about the plants themselves. There was also a free art exhibition in the visitor centre at the main entrance which we enjoyed exploring.
The only toilets are at the entrance between the shop and cafe. As well as the bigger cafe there, there was also a kiosk selling ice creams and drinks by the beach. There was an extensive shop outside the entrance selling all types of plants too if the visit to Trebah Gardens leaves you feeling inspired!
Most of the paths were accessible and I spotted several families with buggies but there is a dedicated step free route.
Trebah Gardens is open every day from 9.30am. To find out more about ticket prices and membership options take a look here.
Our tickets were complimentary but all views and opinions are my own.
Naomi Jones is an award-winning author and mum of two. You can find out more about her on her website and read more of her writing here.
