Penrose Water Gardens

Share with others: 

Discover peaceful gardens, lily ponds and wildlife near Truro

Nestled within a tranquil woodland valley on the outskirts of Truro, Penrose Water Gardens is one of Cornwall’s hidden gems. Spanning six acres of beautiful marshland and woodland, the gardens are home to more than 40 lily ponds and natural pools, all fed by fresh springs.

Stroll through the peaceful gardens and discover an impressive collection of water lilies, aquatic plants and colourful seasonal displays while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for resident kingfishers, moorhens, ducks and other wildlife that make the gardens their home.

With quiet seating areas tucked amongst the trees and picnic benches overlooking the ponds, Penrose Water Gardens is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a family day out or simply unwind in nature.

After exploring the gardens, visit The Cornish Barista, located on-site and serving locally sourced coffee, breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes and daily specials throughout the week. Contact them on 01872 672679.

Visitor Information

  • Open: Daily, 9.00am – 5.00pm
  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: Free on-site parking
  • Dogs: Welcome on leads
  • Families: Children should be supervised at all times around the ponds.
  • Seasonal note: During periods of heavy rainfall, paths may occasionally close due to flooding. Please check Penrose Water Gardens’ social media channels before travelling during the winter months.

Address:

Penrose Water Gardens, Shortlanesend, Truro, TR4 9ES

View parks and gardens:

Boscawen Park & Pavilion

Discover Boscawen Park, one of Truro’s most popular outdoor attractions. Located alongside the River Truro, the park offers scenic riverside walks, open green spaces, a children’s play area, tennis courts, outdoor fitness equipment, community events and Café in the Park. Perfect for family days out, dog walks, outdoor activities and relaxing in Cornwall’s only city.

Coosebean Woodland

A hidden woodland on the edge of Truro, Coosebean Woodland offers peaceful riverside walks, seasonal wildlife and beautiful natural surroundings, making it a favourite with families, dog walkers and nature lovers.

Daubuz Moor

Escape to Daubuz Moor, a peaceful nature reserve just minutes from Truro city centre, where woodland, wetlands and wildflower meadows provide a haven for wildlife and a relaxing place to explore.

Furniss Island

Just a short walk from Truro city centre, Furniss Island is a tranquil community green space named after the famous Cornish biscuit company that once operated nearby.

Glasteinan Woods

Hidden behind Beechwood Parc, Glasteinan Woods is a peaceful semi-native broadleaved woodland offering riverside walks, abundant wildlife and a tranquil escape just minutes from Truro city centre.

National Trust Trelissick

Just a short drive from Truro, National Trust Trelissick is one of Cornwall’s most beautiful country estates, with stunning gardens, historic house, woodland walks and panoramic views across the Fal Estuary.

Trevince Estate Gardens

Trevince is a family-owned country estate in the heart of Cornwall’s historic mining district, where beautiful seasonal gardens welcome plant lovers, curious souls and canine companions to explore as they evolve through the seasons.

Trewithen Garden and House

Home to the Hawkins family since 1715, Trewithen House & Gardens is one of Cornwall’s most celebrated historic gardens, renowned for its spectacular collection of rare trees, shrubs and seasonal displays.

Victoria Gardens

A hidden gem in the heart of Truro, Victoria Gardens is a beautifully restored Victorian gardens, renowned for its colourful seasonal displays, mature trees, peaceful pathways and panoramic views across Cornwall’s only city.