Morrab Gardens

About

Morrab Gardens is a public park, with luxuriant sub-tropical planting established over many years, in the centre of Penzance. 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. By the late nineteenth century, Penzance had become a popular seaside resort and required a park for visitors’ recreation. To this end, Penzance Corporation acquired Morrab House, along with its grounds, in 1888 for £3,120. The villa was leased by Penzance Private Library and the gardens were designed and set out to the scheme of paths and borders which can be seen to this day. When the Gardens were established, in the 1880s, unlike today there were no nurseries selling exotic plants, the original planting was the result of gifts from local estates.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 30 minutes