Horticultural Wonders: Our Southwest England Garden Adventure
This last week, from August 21st to 25th, we embarked on a journey to the enchanting county of Cornwall. Our five-day adventure took us through a tapestry of botanical wonders, historic landscapes, and lush gardens, leaving us inspired and invigorated for the ongoing Bothy Gardens project.
Day 1: Burnham Nurseries, South Devon Our journey commenced with a visit to Burnham Nurseries in South Devon. This orchid paradise is nestled in the heart of the countryside and offers a glimpse into the mesmerizing world of orchids. Established in 1979, Burnham Nurseries has become a renowned hub for rare and exotic orchids. The history of this nursery is rooted in a passion for these exquisite blooms. We were captivated by the stunning variety of orchids and hope to incorporate some of these rare treasures into our own greenhouses.
Day 2: The Eden Project, Bodelva, Par On day two, we set off for the iconic Eden Project in Bodelva, Par. This world-famous attraction is known for its remarkable biomes, each housing diverse plant species from around the globe. The Eden Project was founded in a reclaimed china clay pit and opened its doors to the public in 2001. It has since become a symbol of sustainability, environmental education, and the interconnectedness of nature. Our time here immersed us in the wonder of biodiversity and reinforced our commitment to creating a harmonious ecosystem in Bothy Gardens.
Day 3: Penzance and Saint Michael's Mount Our third day began with a visit to the charming coastal town of Penzance. We wandered through its streets, absorbing the vibrant local culture. Later in the day, we embarked on a picturesque walk to Saint Michael's Mount. This tidal island is crowned by a medieval castle and is surrounded by stunning gardens. The Mount has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Iron Age. The gardens, a testament to centuries of cultivation, left us with a profound appreciation for the connection between people and the land.
Day 4: Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Penzance Thursday brought us to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Penzance, a haven of art and horticulture. These gardens offer a unique fusion of contemporary sculpture and lush plant life. The site was transformed from a neglected wilderness into a sanctuary for creativity and tranquillity. As we strolled amidst the sculptures and exotic flora, we felt the power of artistic expression intertwining with the beauty of nature.
Day 5: The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Saint Austell Our journey reached its zenith on Friday as we ventured to The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Saint Austell. This historic estate boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 18th century. Abandoned and overgrown during World War I, these gardens were lovingly restored in the 1990s and have since become a horticultural wonder. We were particularly drawn to the walled garden, the gardeners' bothy, and the kitchen garden, which provided valuable insights for our Bothy Gardens project. The Lost Gardens of Heligan stand as a testament to the resilience of nature and the restorative power of gardening.
Our five days of exploration through Devon and Cornwall were nothing short of enchanting. We were inspired by the beauty and history of these gardens and the dedicated individuals who have preserved, cultivated, and shared their passion for horticulture. Returning to Bothy Gardens, we carry new energy, fresh ideas, and a deeper appreciation for the timeless connection between humanity and the natural world. Our journey has strengthened our resolve to create a haven of beauty, biodiversity, and inspiration within the heart of Bothy Gardens. Stay tuned as we continue to share the progress and transformation of this enchanting space.
