Situated close to the seafront in the heart of Falmouth, one of Cornwall’s most historic towns is Gyllyngdune Gardens. Now restored to its former glory as part of a £2.4m project with the aim of recreating the way it looked to visitors in Victorian and Edwardian times.
Set out by the Rev Coope and his family in 1838 the gardens were created in a quarry from which stone had been taken to build the Coope’s family estate. It was a Victorian fashion of the day to add the quirky features that the gardens are now known for; the Monolitic arch that site incongruously perched on a rise, the quarry tunnel used to enter the garden from the sea front, the shell seats and shell encrusted grotto. It’s believed that the daughters of Rev Coope decorated the shell features themselves.
The ownership of the land and gardens changed hands until the town council in Falmouth bought it in 1903 to preserve the now popular attraction. In 1911 what is know known as the Princess Pavilion was built and opened by Princess Alexandra of Teck.
With a concert hall, a covered veranda and a bandstand in the gardens it became the ideal for promenading and enjoying outdoor entertainment. Indeed, today throughout the summer events are regularly held and make a visit to the Gyllyngdune Gardens to enjoy art, music, learn or just to relax.
The process of restoration is now complete and the restocking of the flower beds with plants and shrubs means that you will see a completely rejuvenated attraction and something that you must see on a visit to this part of Cornwall.
We specialise in unique and personalised special interest tours of Cornwall for groups large and small, creating tours that focus on subjects and special events; as well as bespoke itineraries for schools, university and alumni groups.
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