Caerhays Castle Gardens
History and Beauty in a unique location

Opens 14th February to 05th June 2011
Open 14th February 2011,to 05th June 2011 seven days a week, 10:00 to 17:00 (last admission 16.00)
Entry £7.50 Adults, £6.50 OAP, £3.50 Under 16
The house is also open (weekdays only) for limitied period for guided tours only please telephone for more information and to make a reservation as numbers are restricted.
Group tours can be arranged out of season
Caerhays, an informal woodland garden overlooking the sea and extending to over 120 acres is owned by the Williams family. The origins of the garden can be traced back to the work of the Chinese plant hunters at the turn of the Century and many of their new plant introductions can still be seen in maturity in the garden today.
Caerhays is home to the x williamsii camellia hybrids but is perhaps best known for its huge, Asiatic magnolias which are usually in their prime in March and April. Caerhays hosts the Plant Heritage Natioanl collection of Magnolias with over 500 different varities on show. There are also over 80 UK record sized trees in the garens as measured by height and girth.
FAQ's
- Is there coach access?
- Yes, please visit website or telephone for details. In 2008 alterations were made to the access which will allow small and medium sized coaches to drive up to the castle to discharge their passengers. Larger coaches should telephone 01872500025 prior to visit to check arrangements and for directions as to which access routes to use. Larger vehicles may need to park at the beach car park. Please visit our website www.caerhays.co.uk for more details.
- Is the house open?
- Part of the season only, please check website for details. Reservations advised as numbers for tours are limited. The house is open from March to May on weekdays only. The house tour includes several exhibitions of artefacts covering the many interests of the Williams family and estate over the past 150 years. Our experienced and knowledgeable guides will help you enjoy your tour around this unique property.
- Are you suitable for wheelchairs?
- The garden is set on a steep hill but many of the lower areas are accessible. Please telephone for more information prior to your visit. The house, shop and tearooms are totally accessible and there are disabled toilets in the courtyard. Disabled parking is available by the entrance or in some cases in castle yard. Please ask on arrival or telephone prior to your visit.
- Is there parking?
- Yes, at the beach or disabled parking by the entrance. A large car park at the beach is available for normal use, the 5 minute walk upto the entrance gives time to admire both the castle and the sweep of gardens behind it as well as the parkland in front. There is more limited car parking space at the entrance to the garden for elderly or disabled visitors. All car parking for garden and castle visitors is free when house and garens are open in the spring.
- Do you do weddings?
- Yes, along with many other types of corporate events and celebrations. The Vean, our luxury lodge set in the heart of the estate, is licensed for civil ceremonies and is the perfect place for your special day. Receptions of up to 120 can be catered for at The Vean or, alternatively, larger parties can be accommodated in a marquee in the park beside the castle itself. Special rates are available in The Vean and other estate holiday accommodation for wedding or celebration groups, please contact 01872 500025 for further information or visit www.thevean.co.uk
- Is there accommodation available?
- Caerhays Estate has a number of self catering 5 star holiday cottages to let both in the gardens and in the nearby villages of Caerhays, East and West Portholland. In addition bed and breakfast can be arranged for individuals or groups at The Vean, our luxury 5 star lodge in the heart of the estate. For more information please telephone 01872 500025 or visit www.caerhays.co.uk www.thevean.co.uk
- What is the link between Caerhays and Burncoose Nurseries?
- Burncoose and Caerhays are in the same Williams family ownership although about 25 miles apart. For full details of the Burncoose Nurseries mail order plant catalogue featuring over 3500 ornamental trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants please visit www.burncoose.co.uk
Location

The collections are looking in good heart both the old friends and the many new arrivals
- Roy Lancaster
Caerhays Castle Gardens
Caerhays Castle Gardens,
Estate Office,
Caerhays,
Gorran,
St Austell,
Cornwall
PL26 6LY
t: 01872 500025
f: 01872 500025
e: enquiries@caerhays.co.uk
w: www.caerhays.co.uk
- Dogs allowed
- Plants or shrubs for sale
- Special party rates
- Refreshments
- Toilets on site or nearby
- Whole or partial disabled access
- Car and coach park