Tresco Abbey Garden

Open all year round.
Daily 10:00 - 16:00 all year round. Garden Visitor Centre open March - October.
Tresco Abbey Garden was created in 1834 by Augustus Smith who had taken over the lease of the Isles of Scilly from the Duchy of Cornwall. He brought together an extraordinary collection of plans which he laid out according to the native lands. Today you can wander through garden zones such as "Higher and Lower Australia", "Mexico" and "South Africa Cliff". Mediterranean and South American species are extensively represented as well as those from California, New Zealand and the Canary Islands. There are over 4,000 different specimens that enjoy exceptional hours of sunshine and the warmth of the Gulf Stream and include an abundance of Palms, Bamboo, Cacti, Echium, Agapnthus, Flame-Trees and King Proteas. The garden is also the home of the Valhalla Museum, a unique collection of figureheads from ancient shipwrecks.
FAQ's
- How do I get to Tresco?
- You can travel to the island by helicopter from Penzance direct to Tresco 01736 363871, lands outside of garden; ferry from Penzance and launch transfer to Tresco abd fixed wing aircraft from Lands End and launch transfer to Tresco 0845 7105555 - all do day trips.
- Can I bring my dog into the garden?
- Dogs are welcome on leads and can be brought to the island on a day trip, however they are not permitted to stay in accommodation.
- Is there anywhere to stay on Tresco?
- The island has extensive holiday accommodation with a choice of luxury hotel and self-catering cottages. These can be viewed on the website or can be booked through the island Estate Office on 01720 422849.
- Are there any job opportunities at the garden?
- Job vacancies in the garden are rare, however we are always pleased to receive CV's that we can keep for consideration when a vacancy arises. We also run a yearly Scholarship in partnership with the Studley College Trust, please write in for details. Seasonal positions are also available in the Garden Visitor Centre, contact the Personnel Department for details or check the employment pages on the website.
- What is the best time of year to visit the garden?
- There is always something different to see in the garden with plants flowering at intervals throughout the year.
- Do you accept school groups?
- We are always happy to encourage school groups and no charge is made to children under 16. Please contact us to let us know of any special requirements.
Location

Tresco Abbey Garden
Tresco Abbey Garden,
Tresco,
Isles of Scilly
TR24 0QQ
t: 01720 424105
f: 01720 424105
e: mikenelhams@tresco.co.uk
w: www.tresco.co.uk
- Dogs allowed
- Plants or shrubs for sale
- Special party rates
- Refreshments
- Toilets on site or nearby
- Whole or partial disabled access