Morrab Gardens

Morrab Gardens, Cornwall’s first public garden began welcoming guests back in 1889, and people have been drawn to this subtropical paradise at the heart of Penzance ever since.

Though petite in size, that hasn’t stopped the owners amassing a generous collection of unusual plants – all with their own unique mythology, which the website helpfully delves into. From the sword-like Agave – known as the goddess of desire in Greek mythology to the haughty Hydrangea, which symbolised arrogance and frigidity in Medieval times. Other spellbinding species to look out for include the bushy Myrtle, blousy Handkerchief Tree and the perplexing Monkey Puzzle Tree.

With the waves lapping in the distance, and a banquet of tropical foliage laid out before you, Morrab Gardens brings a welcome splash of the Mediterranean to these Cornish shores.