Lanhydrock in Cornwall | National Trust

Whatever the weather, a visit to a National Trust property is always a great day out for the entire family. With properties located throughout the UK, the National Trust are known for their renovation and preservation efforts, taking care of historic houses, gardens, scenic spots, wildlife reserves and nature trails. Of all the National Trust properties we have visited so far, two of my all-time favourites are Waddesdon Manor (in Buckinghamshire) and Stourhead (in Wiltshire). A third got added to the list recently - Lanhydrock (in Cornwall).

The Lanhydrock Estate is massive - over 1,000 acres of parkland, woods, riverside paths, landscaped gardens and the Victorian family home.

The country house is one of the best maintained that we have visited. With around 50 rooms to explore (in addition to the gardens), you need to set aside the day to truly enjoy the place. The visitor route through the house takes you from one room to the other offering an interesting insight into the lives of the people who lived and worked in Lanhydrock. The upper floor has the family spaces while the lower space includes the kitchen and the servant's quarters. The contrast between the two was interesting.

Not to be missed while exploring the house are the kitchens, the nurseries, the servants' quarters, the  Long Gallery (special mention to the Steinway piano) and the collection of family portraits.

While the house was very well-maintained and interesting, we visited mainly for the gardens; especially the Rhododendron blooms and we were not disappointed. They had put on a stunning visual display! Blooms ranging in colour from pink and orange to purple, were a welcome and beautiful sight. Along with the many other blooms, the gardens were a riot of colours. It made for an excellent photo opportunity.

The garden at Lanhydrock was planned by George Truefit in 1854 and provides colour all year round. If you visit in Spring, you can see the 'Lanhydrock' magnolia above the magnolia tunnels. When we visited, the magnolias were past their best but we could still appreciate the planting structure. Colourful Primulas and Astilbes can be seen growing beside the little stream in the higher garden. The herbaceous borders were filled with fragrant plants and flowers. And as you explore the higher gardens you are rewarded with stunning views.

The volunteer guides were all very knowledgeable, helping visitors to get the most out of their visit. Overall, a very delightful house and beautiful gardens & grounds. Lanhydrock is definitely a must-visit when in Cornwall.

Lanhydrock | Bodmin, Cornwall, PL30 5AD
Phone | 01208265950

Standard tickets for adults cost £14.35 while for children it is £7.20. Winter admission rates are different and can be checked on the National Trust website.

For opening times, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/lanhydrock

Good to know

- Parking around 600 yards from the house; free for National Trust members. For non-members £1 for one hour or £3 for all day.
- A shuttle service operates from the main visitor car park to the house.
- Gift shop and plant centre on site.
- Picnic areas available.
- Toilet facilities near the car park and the house.

*Thank you to the National Trust for arranging our visit. All opinions, as always, are solely our own.