PINETUM Gardens is cementing its reputation as a canine-friendly garden – by inviting four-legged friends to strut their stuff at a dog show, as well as explore the grounds.

The attraction is hosting a fun dog show on September 23 2016 from 10-4pm in aid of the Cornish charity Tanya’s Courage – which supports young people who have cancer.

The event takes place in the courtyard garden, where admission is free. Each entry to the show costs £1 – with all proceeds donated to the charity.

Chang Li, owner of the gardens, said: “There are dogs in around one in three households in the UK, and we want to do everything we can to make them welcome at Pinetum.

“We already see breeds of all shapes and sizes exploring the 30-acre grounds. It will be great to see the dogs enjoying the grounds in a new way.”

The event also offers an opportunity for local businesses to set up pitches on site – awarded on a first come, first served basis.

Parking, the courtyard garden, courtyard and tearoom are free to enter, however anyone wishing to explore the stunning gardens (with or without a dog) will need to pay the entrance fee. Children under 11 are free.

The classes are:

1. Most Handsome Dog
2. Prettiest Female Dog
3. Best Six Legs
4. Waggiest Tail
5. Best Short Coat
6. Best Long Coat
7. Most Appealing Eyes
8. Best Trick
9. The Dog (Male or Female The Judge Most Wants To Take Home)
10. Best Dog Over 15” (Male or Female)
11. Best Dog Under 15” (Male Or Female)
12. Best Rescued Dog (Male Or Female)
13. Best Puppy: 4-12 months old (Male Or Female)
14. Best Handler
15. Best Child Handler (Up to the age of 10 years)
16. Best Child Handler (11 – 16 years)
17. Best Condition Dog (Male Or Female)
18. Best Fancy Dress (Male Or Female)
19. Best In Show (Free Class For All Winners)

On Sunday 15th October 2017, 10am until 2pm we are hosting a baby and child clothing swap at Pinetum Gardens. A great chance to swap clothing with other Mums and give aid to BABA as well. Reserve your space by emailing: hello@pinetumgardens.com. We suggest a donation of £5 per table for BABA.

AS THE heavens open, and residents mourn the passing of Summer, Pinetum Gardens in St Austell is offering a ray of hope – with an offer to check out Cornwall’s most colourful winter gardens.

The three-acre winter garden is full of ‘curve appeal’ because it was designed to look like a rose, with paths spiralling out from the centre. All the plants have either winter flowers, beautiful bark, colourful foliage, or heavily scented leaves. There are also scores of heathers, hundreds of bulbs, and some very unusual evergreen trees – all designed to look fabulous, whatever the weather.

The winter garden is one of 10 distinct areas within the 30-acre Pinetum site off the A391 near Holmbush. There are also Japanese, cottage, water, woodland and sunken gardens, as well as the pinetum, an arboretum, a serene lake, and a high quality on-site café and gift shop.

Locals are reminded to buy or renew their season tickets for 2018, ahead of a planned price increase. From now until December 31, season tickets bought online or at admissions will cost £16. Pinetum will also amend start dates on any passes bought for others as Christmas presents. From January 1, 2018, the price of a season ticket will be £18.

In the first of a series of guest blogs, we asked accommodation providers myhotelbreak to explore the reasons why their customers love to visit Pinetum, here’s what they had to say:

When seeking the perfect hotel break, having interesting and memorable attractions nearby can add or even make the trip. So that’s why for our guests looking for hotels in the South West of England, we highly recommend adding a day trip to Pinetum Gardens to your itinerary.

Recently awarded Trip Advisors Certificate of Excellence award, this enchanting attraction has lots to offer.

Let’s find out more…

These picturesque gardens situated right in the heart of St Austell are a real gem. If you’re looking for an attraction that breathes tranquillity and peace then this has it in abundance. The family owned gardens offer a pleasant and relaxed environment where our hotel guests staying nearby can relax and unwind.

Over the past 40 years these gardens have cared for and looked after one of the biggest plant collections in Cornwall. The ten individual gardens inspired from around the world all have their own unique character as they host their own plants that are set within the magnificent parkland.

This is a garden for all seasons. Perfect for families or couples alike. A different kind of escapism.

The Gardens…

There are over 6000 types of plants on the 30-acre estate which is comprised of ten gardens as previously mentioned. As you meander through the parkland you can enjoy what’s on offer. From mature trees and large shrubs which make your mind wander to mature oaks, you’ll find something that lives long in the memory here.

The gardens that need to be discovered here are:

• Aboretum
• Cornish Cottage Garden
• Japanese Garden
• Courtyard Garden
• Wild Flower Meadow and Lake
• The Pinetum
• Old Garden
• Water Garden
• Winter Garden
• Woodland Garden

The gardens have another surprise. They are home to 10 national and 67 county champion trees.

What are Champion Trees you ask? A Champion Tree is declared for being the tallest in their class or for their diameter. It can only be called this after being measured by the Tree Register.

Please explore the Pinetum website for more information on each individual garden and what to expect.

After a morning or afternoon exploring, take time out in the courtyard or the garden kitchen. Open from 10am to 5pm; breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea are served.

Take a look at the exciting menu here.

What is the pricing and opening hours?

Prices range from £10.50 for adults to £5.00 for young adults (11 to 17). For over 65’s its £9.00 and under 11’s go free which is great! Family tickets cost £25 for 2 adults and 2 young adults so you save money in this instance.

You can also choose to purchase an annual pass to the gardens which costs £16, or just £12 when you opt to pay by direct debit.

There is free parking and the park opens at 10am with final entry to the gardens at 5pm.

Book tickets online by clicking here.

This family (and dog friendly) attraction is a fantastic day adventure. No matter the time of year, come to Pinetum Gardens and see the unexpected!