Despite the gloomy forecast, our family set out for a pre-booked visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan. The persistent rain couldn’t dampen our spirits or the magic of this incredible place.
Getting Started
We paid just over £60 for our family tickets, which seemed fair given the expanse and beauty of the gardens. For current pricing, you can check the official Heligan website.
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly at the ticket office. Much to our delight, Alexander was given an explorer’s kit, complete with a map and tasks to find creepy crawlies – a perfect way to engage young visitors!
Exploring the Woodland Wonders
Our journey began in the lush forest, where we encountered the Jungle Giants adventure trail. Alexander was absolutely thrilled, darting from one exciting feature to the next. As we ventured deeper into the woods, we came across the hauntingly beautiful Mud Maid sculpture, an impressive artwork crafted from mud, sand, and cement.
A Clearing of Surprises
Emerging from the forest, we found ourselves in a clearing that offered breathtaking views. Here, we spotted some industrious beehives and even a few pigs contentedly roaming their field. The area also boasted some delightful surprises:
- A swinging chair perfect for family photos
- A giant listening cone that intrigued us all
The Tranquil Japanese Garden
Next on our exploration was the serene Japanese garden. We marveled at the meticulously pruned trees, vibrant plants, and trickling streams. The highlight for all of us was undoubtedly the wobbly bridge – crossing it brought out the kid in each of us!
Playtime and Creativity
No family outing is complete without some play, and Heligan didn’t disappoint. We finished our visit at the playground, where Alexander had a blast:
- Zooming down slides
- Soaring on the zip wire
- Swinging to his heart’s content
- Conquering the tower-themed climbing structure
There was even a dedicated craft area for little ones to express their creativity.
Conclusion
Although the heavens opened after a couple of hours, drenching us thoroughly, it couldn’t wash away our smiles. The Lost Gardens of Heligan provided us with a memorable day out, filled with adventure, nature, and family fun. We left knowing that we’d only scratched the surface of what this magical place has to offer. We’re already planning our return visit to explore the areas we missed – hopefully under sunnier skies next time!