Glorious Gardens in Glorious Weather

I love Cornwall so much at times like this.  The days are long and gloriously sunny, in fact I might even plan a beach bbq on our day off this week - the question is which beach will we go to?   I will keep you posted.  It is like a switch has been flicked on the 1st September and the sun in out in full force.  This weekend, making the most of the weather we went to Pinetum Park on Sunday.  Richard had a thing about going and I had been dragging my heals; just not that keen for some reason.  I have to say I was pleasantly surprised, and would highly recommend a visit.

The layout and entrance to the garden would benfit from a little rethink as you are left asking 'is this it?'.  However once you go through the parkland your breathe is taken away.  The stunning vista is a testiment to the planting of previous owners Shirley and Ray Clemo (no relation!).  At the bottom of the parkland is a stunning lake, you are transported to some far off land - it is easy to forget you are in the heart of St Austell.  The Japanese Garden is utterly stunning.  Although heed the signs about not wheelchair/pushchair friendly.  I was a little stubborn and insisted I could manage the pushchair through - Richard thought it was hilarious when balancing on a narrow bridge I nearly fell in the water feature!

If you take pleasure in wandering around gardens then you are spoilt for choice locally and slightly further a field.  With the weather set to remain fair then why not plan a 'Sepetember Sun & Garden' visit to Cornwall?

• Pinetum Park, St Austell - A hidden gem, a love affair with gardens by two dedicated local people, recently brought by another plant lover - the parkland is stunning.
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan - I am a lover of Heligan and we are there most weeks.  One of our most favourite times of year is coming up - Harvest Festival - well worth a visit to enjoy the stunning colours, vegetables and fruits. Starts 19th Sepetember
• The Eden Project - The huge visitor attraction is hosting a food festival at the moment.  We will be going next Sunday to see Katy from Cbeebies.  But if a more distinguished chef is more your cup of tea then check out the two week programme.
• Lanhydrock - This National Trust estate not only has my favourite NT house (great example of upstairs/downstairs living) but it also has spectacular gardens with stunning beautiful herbaceous borders.
• Trebah Gardens - My Mum & Dad's favourite.  This is a special garden - a showcase of Cornish Gardens at their best.  With a lovely walk down to the small waters edge - it is quite magical.  

I would recommend picking up 'The Great Gardens of Cornwall' leaflet in reception.  You pay full price at your first garden and then at each subsequent garden you visit you get a discount.