The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall

It seemed an age since we had visited Cornwall's Lost Gardens of Heligan - so that was where we headed.

Once inside we made our way to view the rhododendrons and camellias. Some are very old. It is believed that the oldest date back to 1792. They are definitely very special at this time of year.

We moved on to the arched walkway of apple trees. 

Once the blossom is fully out it'll look lovely.

Not too much to view in the vegetable gardens at the moment, other than the gentleman on display.



We moved on to the glasshouses.

Next flower photos.

We walked on to the Sundial Garden.



A few seats, shrubs and the like and a neat lawn - and not another person in sight.

Moving on to other things such as the dovecot, you might just be able to spot a dove.

Animals now, there is a farm as well as gardens.

The pigs seemed at peace with the world ...

... as did the goats ...

... and sheep. Quite a few lambs were enjoying the sunshine.

Now a few tulips blowing in the wind.

There's 200 acres to explore at Heligan,

A few daffs in the fields.

From here it's possible to see the sea and the fishing village of Mevagissey in the distance.

There were a few paintings on display, including the one below : The wonders of soil.

Unfortunately we didn't have time to visit, perhaps the most interesting part of theLost Gardens of Heligan - the UK's only outdoor jungle and the lost valley. I have mentioned this in previous posts. We have an annual pass so, hopefully, we'll be visiting the jungle soon.

See also: Lost Gardens of Heligan - Voted UKs Top Visitor Garden

Thanks for visiting my blog ~ Mike.

A Walk Around Charlestown Harbour - 18 Photos

It seemed an age since I had visited Charlestown, but I managed to make a visit over the Easter weekend. It always seems a special place to me.

I snapped a few quick photos as I walked. The first was of the cottage above and the next a couple of anchors.

I then had a look at the ships / boats in dock.

I looked down on this ship from on high.

Now looking across to the opposite side.

The sea is now in view.

The Pier House is a hotel, pub and restaurant. There are now quite a few other food outlets in Charlestown.

A row of cottages with a red post box.




Cliffs and the stony beach.

A look at some of the boats. I was so lucky with the blue sky.



All sorts of interesting things below.



Now looking at the other side of Charlestown.

A different view of the cliffs and of one of the two beaches. This is the entrance to Charlestown harbour, which fills when the tide is high.

The old cottages once more. There is a similar cottage for sale at £500,000+.

More boats and cottages.

Cornish cream!

Below, just in case it's ever needed!

And that's the end of my walk, perhaps more of a stroll really.

Thanks for visiting my blog - Mike.

For a short history of Charlestown please see my blog: 

Photos and history of Charlestown

A short walk from Carlyon Bay to Spit Beach and Beyond

The weather was in a quandary. Should it rain, dabble in sunshine or be dark and menacing? 

Whatever the weather we decided to go for a walk and headed for Carlyon Bay golf course. Not to play though, as I agree with Mark Twain who said, "Golf is a good walk spoiled." I guess I should apologise to any golfers! 

Alongside the golf course, overlooking the sea, there is a public footpath with some lovely views. You have to be aware of any stray golf balls, of course.

With the golf course stretched out before us it turned quite dark with a few drops of rain.

Clouds formed as we walked.

We decided to keep walking and visited Spit Beach. From here it is also possible to carry on walking to Par Beach - though the footpath is a bit grotty.  The sun did its best to shine.

For a brief moment Spit Beach looked great, with blue-green sea lapping the shore.

We decided to retrace our steps alongside the golf course. Dark clouds built up once more.

The clouds appeared to be almost hovering above the horizon.

With Carlyon Bay beach in view we are nearly back to where we started. 

To walk along the side of the golf course park in the Carlyon Bay beach car park. It's a bit bumpy but is often free out of the tourist season. Walk down the hill a short way and on the left is a Public Footpath sign, follow this to where we started our walk. Note that the path can get a bit muddy following heavy rain. 

To finish today's post the azalea in our front garden. Thanks for visiting my blog - Mike.