The Open Gardens events are held at private gardens throughout Cornwall, kindly opened to the public for these events by their owners to support the charity. This year’s programme includes two new additions: a two acre wildlife refuge at Suffree Farm (near Probus), where visitors will be able to meet rare breed pigs and Shetland ponies and a distinctively tropical garden at Trelan in St Ives.

Open Gardens events showcase inspiring wildlife-friendly habitats, ranging from wildflower meadows, woodlands and board walks to ponds, walled gardens and orchards.

Sam Lucock, Community Fundraising and Support Officer, says:

“We are delighted that Open Gardens is back for its thirteenth year! We have two fabulous new gardens in our repertoire this year, which we are so excited about and know that our supporters will love.

“We will have wildlife experts available at the events, helping you to become emerged in the wonderful wildlife that Cornwall has to offer. To add to the lovely atmosphere, some gardens will also have special events, from the Garker Street Band to local artists.

“These spectacular events would not be possible without the tireless and dedicated work of our wonderful volunteers, which makes the Open Gardens programme even more special. Over the last twelve years, our Open Gardens seasons have raised over £130,000 for Cornwall Wildlife Trust.”

Becky David, Open Gardens Volunteer Coordinator says:

“When I discovered that Cornwall Wildlife Trust was looking for a Volunteer Coordinator to grow the Open Gardens concept I felt this was an opportunity to discover more about gardens in Cornwall as well as an opportunity to encourage others to appreciate how gardens can have a significant impact on securing wildlife recovery in Cornwall.

“I’ve been involved since 2014 and enjoyed every moment. The other volunteers we rely on to deliver the events have now become great friends and I’m so impressed by how amenable the owners of the gardens are. 

“The Open Gardens programme is all about helping Cornwall Wildlife Trust in their work, so I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to raise so much money for the charity’s work over the years.”

Alongside the unique opportunity to tour and learn about the otherwise private gardens opened to the public during the Open Gardens events, visitors are invited to indulge in delicious home-baked cake or scones (or both!), baked by volunteers, with clotted cream donated by Rodda’s, alongside teas and coffees donated by Cornico and an assortment of refreshing cold drinks donated by Daymer Bay Drinks.

Find out more about Open Gardens