Skip to content

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. 

The white pyramid entrance at the front of Trelissick, in the autumn, with the orangery at the right of the picture

Discover more at Trelissick

Find out when Trelissick is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

You might also be interested in

East wing and front entrance of Trelissick, Cornwall, surrounded by trees and flowers
Article
Article

History of the house at Trelissick 

Discover the history of Trelissick house and estate, what makes it special and the people who lived here.

Two visitors lean on a gate looking out over the parkland at Trelissick, Cornwall
Article
Article

Things to see on the estate at Trelissick 

Visit the estate for walks with far reaching views. An abundance of wildlife fills the air with sounds at this green haven in Cornwall.

Cup of coffee with National Trust oak leaf design in chocolate
Article
Article

Eating and shopping at Trelissick 

Find out where to buy food and drink, and browse for gifts and souvenirs, during your visit to Trelissick.

The sunshine shining through the leaves of an oak tree beside the water at Roundwood Quay at Trelissick, Cornwall
Article
Article

Visiting Trelissick with your dog 

Discover the dog-friendly estate at Trelissick, with parkland, woodland, shoreline and beach to explore. Trelissick is a two pawprint rated place. 

View of house with views at Dyrham Park in winter, South Gloucestershire

Gardens and parks 

From 18th-century water gardens and Arts and Crafts landscapes to intimate woodland gardens, there are so many places to discover.

Garden volunteers clearing beds in autumn at Nostell Priory, West Yorkshire

Gardening tips 

Discover our gardeners’ top tips so you can make the most of your garden, plot or window box.

Couple walking the dog on a frosty morning at Trelissick, Cornwall

Gardens and parks in Cornwall 

Cornwall is not only home to dramatic coastline and countryside, but also a number of beautiful and historic gardens and parks. Discover colour and interest at hidden gems across Cornwall with your family.