This is Cornwall's real-life secret garden. Formerly the family estate of the Tremaynes, Heligan's magnificent 19th-century gardens fell into disrepair following WWI, but have been splendidly restored by the brains behind the Eden Project, Tim Smit, and a huge army of gardeners and volunteers. It's a horticultural wonderland: you'll encounter formal lawns, working kitchen gardens, fruit-filled greenhouses, a secret grotto and a 25m-high rhododendron, plus a lost-world Jungle Valley of ferns, palms and tropical blooms.
It's also dotted with artworks – look out for the famous sleeping woman, made out of earth and grass – and a haven for wildlife. If you're lucky you might spot a kingfisher or even an elusive barn owl.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.
Heligan is 7 miles from St Austell. The only bus service is provided by Travel Cornwall (www.travelcornwall.uk.com); bus 471 travels from St Austell (30 minutes, three daily Monday to Saturday) en route to Mevagissey.
