Members enjoyed another fascinating day exploring three very different gardens, two of which are rarely open to the public, making this a particularly special event.

With 40 members joining us for the day, we divided into two groups to make the most of each visit. One group began at Tremorran and The Angel in Botallack, while the other headed to the hidden garden in Mousehole, before carefully avoiding colliding with each other at the second stop near St Buryan and swapping over for the afternoon. It worked perfectly, giving everyone plenty of time to explore each garden and chat with the owners.

Tremorran and The Angel on the wild north coast are gardens of many rooms, with high hedges sheltering beautifully planted borders and home to an impressive collection of Eryngiums and Dieramas, both looking particularly splendid. Members also admired enormous Hydrangea blooms and even Proteas thriving despite the exposed coastal conditions.

Michael Harvey’s beautifully designed garden may have been modest in size, but every border, pathway and level had been carefully considered. Members enjoyed learning about sight lines, focal points, steel edging and garden construction. A granite and sedum checkerboard, striking sculptures and unusual tropical plants provided plenty of inspiration for our own gardens.

The garden in Mousehole offered a complete contrast. Hidden behind a granite wall, it was a true plantsman’s paradise, where every corner revealed unusual and rarely seen plants. From vivid blue Brazilian walking iris and towering Lobelia gibberoa to Scheffleras, distinctive Kniphofias and Fuchsias that were almost unrecognisable! There was something remarkable around every corner.

The enthusiasm and generosity of all three garden owners shone through. Despite the intense heat, they warmly welcomed our members with refreshments, cooling drinks and even slices of watermelon – thoughtful additions to another memorable Cornwall Garden Society visit.