About Us
Antony Woodland Garden
One of Cornwall's most peaceful and least crowded gardens — a place to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature.
The Garden
A Hidden Woodland Garden in Cornwall
Spanning over 100 acres of woodland walks, seasonal plantings and riverside vistas near the River Lynher, Antony Woodland Garden has been quietly captivating visitors since the Carew Pole Garden Trust opened it to the public in 1961.
Just a ferry ride from Plymouth, the garden is home to one of the finest camellia collections in the world, nearly 250 varieties of magnolia, and a contemporary sculpture trail winding through ancient woodland.
Collections
A Garden of International Plant Collections
600+ Camellia Varieties
An International Camellia Garden of Excellence housing the National Collection of Camellia japonica — one of only four such gardens in the UK.
250 Magnolia Varieties
Towering magnolias fill West Down Valley with spectacular spring bloom, some trees over 100 years old.
Rhododendrons & Azaleas
Vibrant displays of colour from spring through summer, complemented by hydrangeas and seasonal wildflowers.
Explore
The Wilderness
The oldest part of the garden, The Wilderness covers 60 acres of historic landscape designed in the late 18th century, influenced by Humphry Repton's vision. The paths descend through ancient woodland to the banks of the River Lynher, where tidal mudflats support a rich ecosystem of wading birds.
West Down Wood
Planted from the late 1940s onward, West Down Wood is home to the garden's celebrated evergreen camellia and magnolia collections. The sheltered valley creates a microclimate perfect for these spectacular plants, with some specimens reaching remarkable heights.
Nature
Wildlife and the Lynher Estuary
The garden slopes down to the Lynher Estuary, a haven for wildlife. Oystercatchers, grey herons, egrets, cormorants, shelducks, kingfishers, buzzards and kestrels are commonly spotted. Mullet inhabit the tidal creeks, and Fishful Pond — a historic tidal inlet believed designed by Richard Carew as a fish trap — now supports reed buntings and wetland plants.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the Woodland Walk, which features views toward the Royal Albert Bridge, badger setts, a historic dovecote, and causeway crossings.
Our Mission
Carew Pole Garden Trust
Our goal is to continue to maintain and develop the Woodland Garden as a place of beauty for the enjoyment of many and as a resource for botanical understanding and excellence.
• Maintain our International Camellia Garden of Excellence status and National Collection recognition
• Prioritise collections of Camellias, Magnolias, Rhododendrons, and Hydrangeas
• Increase public awareness and visitor experience
• Develop educational resources for all ages
Carew Pole Garden Trust, March 2023
Plan Your Visit
Discover 100 acres of woodland, world-class plant collections and breathtaking estuary views.