Cornish Gardens, Historic Houses and Museums
The mild Cornish climate means that South East Cornwall boasts a wide selection of stunning gardens which are open to the public. For a full list of gardens, see Visit Cornwall
Explore Historic Houses, Gardens and Museums Near Kernock Cottages
Cotehele
- 4 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL12 6TA
- 01579 351346
- Visit Website
One of the finest Tudor houses in the country, at the heart of this riverside estate the house at Cotehele was mainly built between 1485 and 1627 and was a home of the Edgcumbe family for centuries. Its granite and slate stone walls contain chambers adorned with tapestries, original furniture and armour. Outside, the formal gardens overlook the richly planted valley garden below, with medieval dovecote, stewpond and Victorian summer house, and 18th-century tower. At the Quay there are interesting old buildings housing an art and craft gallery and an outstation of the National Maritime Museum. The restored Tamar sailing barge Shamrock is moored alongside.
Access – Partly accessible (lots of stairs in this old house). Wheelchair route maps of the gardens available. Adapted toilets close to car park. Wheelchairs available for visitor use. Note that there is no electric light in the house so it is recommended to avoid dull days early and late in the season.
Anthony House and Gardens
- 13 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL11 2QA
- 01752 812191
- Visit Website
Beautiful National Trust house bordering the Lynher, with gardens by Repton, this is where Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland was filmed. The Woodland garden (not National Trust) is one of Cornwall’s most beautiful gardens running along the edge of the Lynher Estuary and a joy to visit any time of year; a hidden gem
Access – Antony has accessible facilities and most areas are accessible.
Mount Edgcumbe House & Country Park
- SN PL10 1HZ
- 01752 822236
- Visit Website
Originally built by the Edgcumbe family in 1550 and described by Samuel Pepys in 1683 as “the most beautiful place as ever was seen”, Mount Edgcumbe is a fascinating house set in stunning grounds comprising formal gardens, national camelia collection, parkland and coastal paths. The house has a collection of paintings and tapestries and out buildings are used for shops and cafes. The house is open April to September, between 11.00am and 4.00pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. You can now also experience riding a Segway around Mount Edgcumbe! The parkland is free to explore all year and there are a number of trails.
Access – Trampers are available at Mount Edgcumbe. Most parts are accessible, and there are accessible toilets. Dogs allowed on a lead in the gardens (not the house).
Boconnoc Gardens
- SN PL22 0RQ
- 01208 872507
- Visit Website
Three miles east of Lostwithiel, Boconnoc can trace its history back to the Normans. Eventually, the estate was bequeathed to the Fortescue family, who still own it.The most prominent monument is the Obelisk, which is 123 feet high and was erected in 1771 by Thomas Pitt, 1st Lord Camelford, in memory of his wife’s uncle and benefactor, Sir Richard Lyttelton. There are approximately 100 head of deer in the Deer Park contained within the grounds and also a garden of 20 acres, which is open in the spring for various charities. Boconnoc House and Park have been used for numerous film locations including the BBC ‘Poldark‘ series and Daphne du Maurier’s ‘My Cousin Rachel‘. Interesting Steam Fair in July every year, and Garden open days.
Lanhydrock
- 25 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL30 5AD
- 01208 265950
- Visit Website
“One of the most fascinating late 19th-century houses in England”, Lanhydrock is full of period atmosphere and the trappings of a high Victorian country house. Although the gatehouse and north wing (with magnificent 32yd-long gallery with plaster ceiling) survive from the 17th century, the rest of the house was rebuilt following a disastrous fire in 1881. The garden features a stunning collection of magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias, and offers fine colours right through into autumn. All this is set in a glorious estate of 900 acres of woods and parkland running down to the River Fowey.
Access – Wheelchair access to building. Accessible loos available. Gardens have some loose gravel paths, but a map of accessible routes is available.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
- 40 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL26 6EN
- 01726 845100
- Visit Website
The award winning Lost Gardens of Heligan extend to some eighty acres of “superb pleasure grounds” together with a magnificent complex of walled gardens and a huge, productive vegetable garden, all fast returning to their former glory. Lying at the heart of one of the most mysterious estates in England, Heligan, the former seat of the Tremayne family, is now the site of the largest garden restoration in Europe. It has an extraordinary plant collection together with a range of exotic glasshouses, working buildings, romantic structures and designed landscapes.
Access – Wheelchair access maps provided. Accessible toilets, and a Changing Places toilet with tracked hoist and adult changing bench. Accessible parking. Induction loop; large print information.
Pinetum Gardens
- 30 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL25 3RQ
- Visit Website
‘In the heart of St Austell Bay, discover Pinetum Gardens, a garden oasis of tranquillity, peace and remarkable scenery. This family-owned garden offers an intimate experience with a personal touch. Lovingly created over the past four decades, this 30-acre garden is home to one of the largest plant collections in the county. Set within stunning parkland, ten individually themed garden rooms host an array of plants. We are also home to some of the county’s most spectacular champion trees.’
The Eden Project
- 37 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL24 2SG
- 01726 811911
- Visit Website
If you’ve never heard of the world-renowned Eden Project, it’s pretty difficult to describe adequately. An fabulous array of gardens, including an indoor rainforest and Mediterranean garden in the biomes, but also amazing buildings, sculpture, art and architecture. Just go and see! Only closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Access – fully accessible. A number of power chairs are available (book in advance).
Headland Garden
- SN PL23 1PW
- 01726 870243
- Visit Website
With magnificent views over the open sea, Headland Garden is an idyllic garden carved out of layers of rock and has a cove which is ideal for swimming. Headland Garden is open May to September, 2.00pm – 6.00pm, and all money goes to charity.
Ince Castle Gardens
- SN PL12 4QZ
- Visit Website
Three miles south west of Saltash, south of A38. A five acre garden taking in woodlands, borders, orchard, bulbs and shell house, with lovely views of River Lynher. Check website for opening dates.
Ken Caro Gardens
- 37 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL14 5RF
- 01579 362446
- Visit Website
In the village of Pensilva, 5 miles north east of Liskeard. Two acres mostly planted in 1970, with a further two acre extension in 1993. A well-designed and labelled plantsman’s garden filled with rhododendrons, flowering shrubs, conifers and other trees. Panoramic views, a collection of aviary birds and plants for sale. Open from February – September
Access – There is limited disabled access. Cream teas are available.
Moyclare Garden
- SN PL14 4EH
- 01579-343114
- Visit Website
Moyclare’s one acre garden contains rare and unusual plants and shrubs, many of which are variegated, some are no longer available commercially. The Moyclare Pink broom and the astrantia Moyra Reid originated in the garden, which is open regularly to the public and which has been televised often in the past. Worth a visit early in the year – the camellias begin to bloom as early as January in a mild winter and azaleas often last until June. Open by appointment only.
Access – Disabled access.
Museums in Cornwall
Emily Hobhouse Museum (The Story of Emily)
- 6.9 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL14 3LX
- Visit Website
This new museum celebrates the life of Emily Hobhouse, a human rights campaigner and feminist was best known for campaigning against the terrible conditions inside the British camps in South Africa during the Boer War and trying to end World War One. Emily Hobhouse was the most controversial woman of her time in Britain. The museum is set in Emily’s restored home and you can explore the Victorian way of life of the Hobhouse family and experience the beauty of her home.
Mary Newman’s Cottage
- 13 Miles from Kernock
- SN PL12 4DS
- 01752 844846
A quarter of a mile from Saltash town centre, near t he Waterside, this was allegedly the childhood home of Mary Newman, the first wife of Sir Francis Drake. The grade II listed cottage is a perfect example of 15th century domestic architecture, little altered over the centuries with a reconstructed Tudor herb garden. Open May-Sept on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and Easter & Bank Holidays.
Access – Wheelchair accessible
Bodmin Jail
- SN PL31 2PL
- Visit Website
‘Built in 1779 Bodmin Jail is a landmark historical site in the heart of Cornwall. Showcasing the rich and darkly fascinating legacy of Georgian and Victorian crime and punishment, the jail is an immersive, world class experience for all the family. Award-winning heritage tours, paranormal experiences and self-guided entry provide a unique pathway to the past’. www.bodminjail.org
Winner of Best Themed Entertainment and Attractions Project of the Year – 2021 National AV Awards and winner of Visit England’s ‘Best Told Story’ Accolade for two years running 2021/2022. Cornwall Tourism Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2023/24 finalist.
Dogs not permitted in the museum.
Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum
- SN PL26 8XG
- Visit Website
In the heart of clay country, immerse yourself in the atmospheric grounds of the original Victorian clay works, bursting at the seams with tools, machinery, artefacts and stories. Discover Wheal Martyn’s past life at the heart of this global industry with new exhibition gallery and activities/learning space. Dog friendly with woodland trails, children’s adventure trail, play area and dressing up box and holiday activities. Café.
St Austell so close to Eden Project and Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Royal Cornwall Museum, Truro
- SN TR1 2SJ
- Visit Website
Explore Cornish history, learn about the past, and visit exhibitions at the Royal Cornwall Museum. Visit the website for current exhibitions and events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there historic houses and gardens near Kernock Cottages?
Yes. South East Cornwall is home to several beautiful historic houses and gardens, including Cotehele, Anthony House, Lanhydrock, Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, and Boconnoc Gardens, all within easy driving distance.
What are the best historic houses to visit in South East Cornwall?
Some of the most popular historic houses near Kernock Cottages include Cotehele, Antony House, and Mount Edgcumbe House. Each offers beautiful gardens, rich history, and riverside or coastal settings, making them ideal for a day out.
Are there museums near Kernock Cottages?
Yes. Nearby museums include the Emily Hobhouse Museum, Mary Newman’s Cottage, Bodmin Jail, Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum, and the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro, offering everything from industrial heritage to immersive historical experiences.
Are these attractions suitable for children?
Yes. Many historic houses and gardens offer family-friendly activities, open parkland, and seasonal events that make them enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
Do I need to book historic houses or gardens in advance?
Many attractions allow visitors to arrive on the day, but during school holidays and summer months it is often best to book tickets in advance, especially for popular sites such as the Eden Project or the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Are there indoor attractions for rainy days?
Yes. Museums such as Bodmin Jail, Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum, and the Royal Cornwall Museum provide excellent indoor experiences, making them ideal options when the weather is less favourable.
Are there accessible historic gardens near Pillaton?
Yes. Many Cornish gardens provide accessible routes and facilities. Cotehele offers wheelchair route maps, Mount Edgcumbe has Tramper hire and accessible toilets, and Heligan provides accessible parking, route maps, and Changing Places facilities.
Where can I see famous film locations in Cornwall?
Antony House was used as a filming location for Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland, while Boconnoc House has featured in BBC’s Poldark and My Cousin Rachel. Both offer beautiful historic settings worth exploring.
