A Visitor's Introduction to Lanhydrock House & Garden

Why Visit Lanhydrock?

Lanhydrock offers a rich and immersive historical experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grand yet intimate world of Victorian aristocracy. The house is uniquely divided into areas for the family and the servants, giving visitors a comprehensive look at both the upstairs and downstairs life in a Victorian household. The estate also features extensive gardens, parkland, and woodland walks, making it an ideal destination for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

The beautifully furnished interiors, complete with original artifacts and decor, provide a rare opportunity to see how a Victorian family lived, from their elegant dining rooms to the bustling kitchens. For those interested in outdoor activities, the estate's well-maintained gardens, trails, and cycling routes offer a scenic escape into the Cornish countryside.

Lanhydrock Highlights

1. The Victorian Mansion: The centrepiece of Lanhydrock is the grand Victorian mansion, a lavishly decorated home that showcases the opulence of the 19th-century aristocracy. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect its Victorian heyday, with over 50 rooms open to the public. Highlights include the Great Hall with its ornate ceiling and family portraits, the richly furnished drawing room, and the elegant dining room, complete with fine china and silverware. The house provides a fascinating insight into Victorian tastes, from the furniture and art to the technology of the time.

2. The Kitchens and Servants' Quarters: One of the unique aspects of Lanhydrock is the detailed preservation of the servants' quarters and kitchens. Visitors can explore the various rooms where the staff worked, including the vast kitchen complex, sculleries, and pantries, which are filled with authentic Victorian tools and equipment. The attention to detail in these rooms offers a rare look at the daily life of the servants who kept the house running. It’s a compelling contrast to the opulence of the family’s living spaces and highlights the social hierarchy of the time.

3. The Gardens: The formal gardens at Lanhydrock are a sight to behold, featuring beautifully manicured lawns, flower beds, and carefully shaped hedges. The parterre garden, with its symmetrical design and vibrant flower displays, is a favourite among visitors, especially in spring and summer when the garden is in full bloom. The grounds also include a walled garden, which features fruit trees and seasonal flowers. The gardens are designed to offer both beauty and tranquility, providing an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll.

4. Parkland and Woodland Walks: Beyond the formal gardens, Lanhydrock’s estate stretches over 1,000 acres of parkland, woodland, and riverside trails. The estate offers numerous walking and cycling routes, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Visitors can enjoy peaceful woodland walks, explore the scenic banks of the River Fowey, or follow longer trails that take in panoramic views of the countryside. The parkland is home to an array of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

5. The Church of St. Hydroc: Adjacent to the mansion is the Church of St. Hydroc, a charming medieval church that dates back to the 15th century. The church was historically used by the owners of Lanhydrock House, and its simple yet beautiful interior is worth a visit. The churchyard contains historic graves and offers a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the house and gardens.

6. Family-Friendly Activities: Lanhydrock is a great destination for families, offering a range of activities for children. The estate features an adventure playground, cycling trails, and regular family events throughout the year, such as garden trails and seasonal activities. The extensive grounds provide plenty of space for picnics, and there are child-friendly guided tours and interactive exhibits inside the house, ensuring that younger visitors are engaged with the estate’s history.

7. Cycling Trails: Lanhydrock has become increasingly popular with cyclists due to its network of well-maintained cycling trails that cater to all levels of ability. The estate offers bike hire for adults and children, and there are several routes to choose from, including family-friendly trails through the woodland and more challenging off-road routes for experienced cyclists. The trails are well-signposted and provide a fun way to explore the wider estate.

8. Historical Exhibits and Collections: The house is filled with original Victorian artifacts, including furniture, artwork, books, and personal items from the family who lived there. The National Trust has carefully curated these items to create a sense of authenticity and bring the history of the house to life. Visitors can learn about the family’s history, the social customs of the time, and the changing roles of servants and aristocrats during the Victorian era.

9. Tea Rooms and Picnic Areas: After exploring the house and gardens, visitors can relax at the estate’s tea rooms, which offer a range of refreshments, including traditional Cornish cream teas, sandwiches, and homemade cakes. For those who prefer to bring their own food, there are designated picnic areas within the parkland, making it easy to enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful scenery.

Lanhydrock Facilities

Cafés and Tea Rooms: The Stables Tea Room serves light meals, snacks, and drinks, while the Park Café near the cycling hub offers refreshments for those exploring the grounds. Both locations provide indoor and outdoor seating, with views of the estate.
  
Gift Shop: The National Trust gift shop at Lanhydrock offers a selection of souvenirs, local crafts, books, and gardening products. It’s a great place to pick up a memento of your visit.

Bike Hire: For those interested in cycling, bikes for both adults and children can be hired from the cycle hub located near the car park. The hub also provides maps and information about the cycling trails.

Parking: There is ample parking available on-site, with spaces for cars, coaches, and disabled parking located near the entrance to the estate.

Accessibility: Lanhydrock is accessible to visitors with mobility issues. There are ramps and lifts in place to access most areas of the house, and a wheelchair-friendly shuttle service runs between the car park and the house. Mobility scooters are also available for hire.

Restrooms: Public restrooms, including accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities, are available near the house and in the car park.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: Lanhydrock is open year-round, though opening hours for the house, gardens, and parkland vary by season. The house is typically open from late morning until late afternoon, while the gardens and parkland are accessible earlier in the day. It’s recommended to check the National Trust website for up-to-date hours and any seasonal events.

Admission: Entry fees apply for the house and gardens, though National Trust members receive free admission. There are discounts available for families, children, and seniors. Parkland access is free for everyone, making it a great option for those who wish to enjoy the outdoor areas without visiting the house.

Getting There: Lanhydrock is located just a few miles from Bodmin, Cornwall, and is easily accessible by car via the A30 and A38. Parking is available on-site. The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway, about two miles away, and local buses connect to the estate from nearby towns.

Nearby Attractions

Lanhydrock is ideally located for visitors to explore other attractions in Cornwall:

The Eden Project: A world-famous eco-tourism destination, the Eden Project features enormous biomes housing a diverse collection of plants from around the world. It’s located about 10 miles from Lanhydrock.

Restormel Castle: This 13th-century Norman castle near Lostwithiel offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a short drive from Lanhydrock.

Bodmin Moor: For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Bodmin Moor offers scenic walking trails, ancient stone monuments, and stunning natural landscapes.