Six Reasons You Should Visit Caerhays Castle in Cornwall This Spring
Spring has officially been declared in Cornwall! As the landscape bursts into bloom, there's no better place to embrace the season than Caerhays Castle. Famed for its breathtaking National Collection of Magnolias, this historic estate offers a spectacular springtime experience, from guided walks through vibrant gardens to exclusive lectures and family-friendly events. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or looking for the perfect Mother’s Day treat, here are six unmissable reasons to visit Caerhays Castle this spring.
1. Magnolia Mania!
(1st March – 30th March 2025)
March at Caerhays is synonymous with Magnolia Month, a celebration of its world-renowned collection of over 80 different magnolia species. Walk among stunning blooms in shades of pink, white, and purple, soak in the fresh spring air, and experience one of Cornwall’s most beautiful seasonal displays.
Caerhays is home to one of the four National Collections of Magnolias in the UK, recognised by the National Council for the Conservation of Plants and Gardens (NCCPG). As a National Collection Holder, Caerhays plays a vital role in preserving rare and endangered magnolia species, including some of the oldest specimens in the Western world. Many of these magnolias originate from historic seed collections gathered in China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces over 100 years ago by famous plant hunters like E.H. Wilson and George Forrest.
2. Join an Exclusive Lecture & Garden Tour with Charles Williams
(7th March 2025)
For a deeper dive into the estate’s botanical heritage, join Charles Williams, Caerhays’ custodian and a leading magnolia expert, for an exclusive lecture and garden tour. Discover the fascinating history and conservation of these spectacular trees, learn about rare hybrids, and see firsthand why Caerhays is a global leader in magnolia cultivation.
3. Celebrate Mother’s Day and Support CoppaFeel!
(30th March 2025)
Make Mother’s Day extra special by celebrating the culmination of Magnolia Mania at Caerhays Castle. 25% of every entrance ticket on March 30th goes directly to CoppaFeel!, a charity dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness.
🌸 Join a Free Guided Garden Walk at 10:30 AM with Charles Williams and immerse yourself in the stunning magnolia displays.
🌸 Wear Pink! Help us "paint the garden pink" by donning your favourite pink T-shirt, beanie, or even knee-high socks in support of CoppaFeel!
🌸 Donate to CoppaFeel! while enjoying a breathtaking morning walk. The one-hour walk is free, but donations are welcome.
4. Discover the Williams Caerhays Mineral Collection
(8th April 2025)
Uncover the hidden geological treasures of Caerhays in a fascinating lecture by Courtenay Smale, Curator of the Caerhays Mineral Collection. Learn about the estate’s rare minerals and gemstones, as well as its significant contribution to Cornwall’s rich mining heritage.
5. Easter Weekend Adventures for the Whole Family
(19th – 21st April 2025)
Hop into spring with a fun-filled Easter weekend at Caerhays! Enjoy exciting Easter egg hunts, interactive family-friendly activities, and seasonal treats, all set against the spectacular backdrop of blooming magnolias and rhododendrons. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Easter while exploring one of Cornwall’s most beautiful historic estates.
6. A Scented Rhododendron Garden Walk & Talk
(12th April 2025)
Magnolias aren’t the only floral highlight at Caerhays! Join Charles Williams for a guided walk focusing on scented rhododendrons. Learn about the estate’s rare and aromatic varieties while wandering through fragrant spring gardens. If you’re a garden enthusiast, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Plan Your Visit to Caerhays Castle
Whether you’re captivated by magnolias in bloom, eager to explore Cornwall’s history, or simply want to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors - just a stone's throw away from the sea, there’s something for everyone at this magnificent estate.
📍 Secure your tickets and find more details on upcoming events at HeritageXplore.com.
🌸 We look forward to helping you plan a memorable day out this Spring!
