Caerhays Castle & Gardens has received the first-ever International Camellia Society Award for its remarkable Historic Ornamental Camellia Tree Collection. This newly established award aims to spotlight and encourage the worldwide preservation of historically important Camellias. The official presentation will take place at the 2025 ICS Congress in Tokyo.
The estate earned this recognition for 11 standout camellia specimens adorning the castle walls, all originally planted between 1897 and 1904. Notable among them are Camellia sasanqua, planted from 1899 to 1902, two examples of Camellia x vernalis ‘Dawn’ from the same period, and a single Camellia japonica.
Charles Williams, Owner of the Caerhays Estate, says “A reimagination of British gardens took place at the start of the last century, and Caerhays played a huge role in proving what could be successfully grown here. We’re delighted that the historic significance of our 11 varieties of camellia have been recognised and celebrated by the International Camellia Society. The fact that Caerhays is the first ever recipient of such an award also feels very fitting, due to our pioneering nature as a garden”.
In partnership with the Great Gardens of Cornwall, the association of the most historically and horticulturally important gardens in Cornwall, Cornwall DMC have created a series of truly unique garden experiences.
We create bespoke private garden tours for many groups following their horticultural passions throughout Southern England. To include the Cornwall’s gardens in your itinerary, find out more information or receive a no obligation quote please get in touch.
