Welcome to Morrab Gardens in Penzance, Cornwall

About The Gardens

The quality of a public space gives a strong impression of an area. It is part of what gives a town its identity, and local residents a sense of civic pride.

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Friends of Morrab

The Friends are a lively group of people who share a love of the gardens. Some volunteer their help in the greenhouses and the grounds, others like to get involved with fundraising, especially at the annual summer fete.

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How to find us

Morrab Gardens is located in the heart of Penzance, just off the town centre and has been looked after by the Council since it was bought in 1888.

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Every day something fresh, something new:
camellias dripping with early morning rain,
wave upon wave of magnolia, perfect white to deep lilac,
first daffodils, crocuses under the trees,
Open spaces filled with flowers, smell of spring grass-mowing.
Secluded walks, hidden pond – one bright pink water lily.
Children playing in the bandstand, teenagers’ meeting place,
summer picnics on the grass,
fountain playing, small birds drinking.
Red sumac leaves caught and turned in the wind,
gossip on the corners.
A pair of gulls trampling the wet grass for worms,
early frost on leaves, frozen spiders’ webs.
At night, dark tree tunnels

Penny Young

Friends of Morrab Gardens Member

Like most of the houses in the centre of Penzance, my terraced house has a very small garden. It was, therefore, a real joy to discover Morrab Gardens with its wonderful collection of sub-tropical plants. And even better, to meet Joe the head gardener who was more than happy to let me loose with a spade and a wheelbarrow. My favourite time of year in the Gardens is the spring when the daffodils are in full bloom and the magnolia trees are truly magnificent. I love taking my dog for a walk in the early morning before many people are about. Because I wanted to become more involved I joined the Friends of Morrab Gardens and have made some really good friends and learnt some useful gardening skills along the way.

Rosie Hughes

Friends of Morrab Gardens Chairman

Very pretty gardens The gardens are interesting and very pretty. Lots of places to sit and relax. Easy to find in the middle of Penzance - perfect !

Kathyolley

21 Aug 2017
Hidden 'sub-tropical' gardens in Penzance We took a brief peek inside these public gardens in Penzance and were totally amazed by what we found- a stunning collection of wierd and wonderful exotic plants set in a stunningly beautiful and well-maintained garden. These gardens need to be better known and listed as being of historical importance. Our visit was in mid-March and already there were so many beautiful trees and shrubs in flower. An enchanted place, we felt we had stepped aside from the real world. What an incredible asset for the town.

Peter E

25 Mar 2016
Winter stroll We enjoyed a stroll round the gardens even though it was late in the season. Very well kept. Good for a picnic if the weather had been better.

Lynn P

12 Dec 2017
walk with the dogs Visited with my sister and her dog and walked threw the grounds. Alway's find grounds tidy and well manicured. Alot of activity always takes place in these spectacular gardens from dog walking to picnics,reading,sun bathing,relaxing,football and other games,tennis to courting couples. You could go there on your own and not feel alone. They hold outdoor live events and have a cafe that serves refreshments that ive only tried once but it was outstanding.

teresa e

11 Aug 2016
A little haven of quiet Tucked away is the Morrab Gardens, adjacent to the Morrab Library. If you want to have a few moments of peace and quiet - this is the place to go in central Penzance. In October most of the colourful lilies have faded and gone to seed but there is a sweet little fountain and plenty of benches to sit upon.

Geraldine O

20 Oct 2015

Morrab Gardens

…the sub-tropical oasis in the heart of Penzance