Shortlanesend, Truro
TR4 9ES
Tel: (01872) 222307
Email: penrose.water@btconnect.com
Web: www.penrosewatergardens.com
A Tranquil Oasis
Penrose Water Gardens are unique as they are the only water gardens in Cornwall and were founded by Richard and Gloria over 40 years ago; covering 6.5 acres of marshland and set within a beautiful woodland valley.
We have over forty lily ponds which are fed by natural springs with a gravity feed system that ensures water levels can easily be controlled to suit the growing conditions required by the water plants. Entry to the garden is free, as is parking, and visitors (with their dogs, if on a lead) are welcome to take a leisurely walk to explore and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, nature and wildlife. We are also happy to provide a 'walk and talk' for groups who would like a more formal tour so please contact us if you would like us to arrange this. Please note that, should you wish to borrow a wheelchair, there is one readily available in the office. Facilities for young children include an outdoor play area and, during the school holidays, we have run nature trails, pond dipping and other activities, enabling the younger generation to explore the gardens and get closer to wildlife, with hands-on experience. This has included visiting the area where we grow our own produce, picking leeks and potatoes and then spending time with our Chef turning them into an appetising soup, which the children have then devoured!
A variety of plants are available for sale including, of course, our beautiful water lilies and a native aquatic plant range. We are happy to provide advice and information about pond care and, in support of the Be Plantwise Campaign, we also encourage our customers to seek advice on the most suitable plants for their ponds thus promoting responsible pond management.
Wildlife is a real speciality of Penrose Water Gardens, our regular visitors include many beautiful song-birds, kingfishers, herons, foxes and possibly even the local Otter. In early summer dragon and damsel flies and many other varieties of insects are abundant.
The tearooms are easily accessible as the entrance is all on the level to the car park. You can also gain easy access to the large veranda overlooking the water lily ponds and we also have a wheelchair on site for use by our customers. The pathways between the ponds are grassed and many are narrow. It can be damp under foot so it is advisable to wear wellington boots or appropriate footwear.
Dogs are welcome in the Gardens on a lead and well-behaved dogs are welcome inside.
Two and a half miles north-west of Truro off the B3284.
Opening TimesAll Year Admission Free |
Bosvigo House and Garden Burncoose Garden and Nursery Chacewater Redruth Truro Chyverton Park
Roseland House, Garden and Nursery Trelissick Garden Cornwall's Garden Centres