Pentillie Castle

Pentillie Castle was built in 1698 and is surrounded by a 2,000 acre estate. After lying dormant and neglected for many years, the gardens will be open to the public on various dates. Please check the website for details. Private tours available for groups of more than 15 people.

Pentillie Castle featured on Channel 4's Country House Rescue in January 2009 with Ruth Watson. Any great country estate needs its own kitchen garden and Pentillie’s is testament to a magnificent past. This historical walled garden dates from the early Victorian era. We have the weather records since 1855. Currently sleeping under a blanket of weeds and brambles, the original structure remains intact and we are very keen to restore this to a working garden so that they will again supply plentiful local varietal fruit and vegetables to the castle.
Work has started in the kitchen garden to clear the brambles and undergrowth, as well as to replant the traditional Tamar Valley cherry and apple orchards. However, we are always on the look out for volunteers to help!

Pentillie’s American gardens were designed by Lewis Kennedy in 1813. The term ‘American’ comes from the importation of plants from America in the 1800’s. This area of garden is typical of many Cornish gardens, filled with a wide variety of rhododendrons, camellias, magnolias and azaleas. It is a profusion of colour from early spring.

Over the last 30 years, the American garden has suffered from neglect and lack of manpower. Old photographs depict fine lawns among small shrubs and summerhouses. It is hoped that we can recreate this in years to come. Sorry, no dogs, shaded parking is also limited.

Garden Open Days: 20 March; 3 April; 1-2 May 11am-4pm

20 February – Snowdrop Walk: Starts at 10:30am and finishes approx. 3pm. Entrance £25pp to include guided tour and 2-course lunch. Booking essential.

20 March – In aid of RNLI. 11am-4pm. Entrance £6
3 April – In aid of St Luke’s Hospice. 11am-4pm. Entrance £6
1-2 May – In aid of RNLI. 11am-4pm. Entrance £6

17 May – Bluebell Walk: Starts at 11am and finishes approx. 3pm. Entrance £25 pp to include guided tour and 2-course lunch. Booking essential.

If you belong to a group or club who would be interested in visiting the gardens at a different time of year, please do get in touch with the estate office, as private tours for groups of more than 15 can be arranged.

Please check the website for further opening dates.