Creative Connections: a day in nature to inspire change
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17 Jun: Gates open at 9am
Rise with the sun and start your day immersed in nature. From 8am, early birds are invited to begin their journey with a soulful yoga session overlooking the ocean, set in a serene green space nestled between Heligan’s iconic Northern Summer House and sweeping views of the Cornish coastline. Stretch, breathe, and awaken your senses as the sea breeze sets the tone for a day like no other. Follow that moment of peace with a freshly brewed coffee and a nourishing breakfast from our rustic Home Kitchen. Great celebrations start with full hearts and happy bellies.
Day Four of the Heligan Homecoming Festival is a celebration of creativity, connection, and the boundless inspiration found in the great outdoors.
Author and co-founder of Cabilla Cornwall, Merlin Hanbury-Tenison, leads the way with stories of regeneration and the wild edges of Bodmin Moor. Renowned artist Andrew Gifford brings his visionary perspective on how nature shapes not just what we see, but how we feel. Rupert Isaacson, celebrated author of The Horse Boy, shares powerful insights into working with children with Special Educational Needs through connection with animals and the land.
Journalist Daniel Hewitt offers a fresh lens on the world through storytelling and truth-seeking, while Sue and Pete Hill creators of Heligan’s iconic Mud Maid and Giant’s Head, return to the heart of their work, reflecting on how sculpture, place, and imagination continue to shape Heligan’s evolving story. Carl Rowlinson, co-founder of Plant One, invites us to think deeply about trees, rewilding, and the future of our shared landscapes.
Dive deeper into the Heligan story through our inspiring drop-in Experience Talks, hosted by the estate’s very own team of passionate storytellers.
We encourage you to arrive early, soak up the festival atmosphere and explore the day’s experiences and immersive moments.
Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of Heligan, captivated by horticulture, intrigued by the poetry of Simon Armitage, or simply here to enjoy a magical day out with your family, there’s a path for everyone. And sometimes, the most meaningful journey is the one where you lose yourself a little. In June, the gardens are in full bloom, offering quiet corners, hidden trails, and the kind of beauty that makes you feel, somehow, at home.

Timetable – Tuesday 17th June
8:00 - Yoga in Nature
9:00 – Gardens open to ticket holders and garden visitors
9:30 - Heligan Sculptures Stroll with Sue & Pete Hill
10:00 Home Stage / Festival Area Open
10:30 - Unveiling Heligan: A Journey Through its Stories and Secrets
11:00 - Home Stage - Carl Rowlinson
11:45 - Home Stage - Andrew Gifford
12:30 - Home Stage - Merlin Hanbury-Tenison
13:00 - Heligan Sculptures Stroll with Sue & Pete Hill
14:00 - Home Stage - Daniel Hewitt
14:30 - Unveiling Heligan: A Journey Through its Stories and Secrets
15:00 - Home Stage - Rupert Isaacson
16:00 - Home Stage - Panel discussion and Q&A
17:00 - Doors to the Heligan Kitchen open for guests of our "Cooking on Fire" Lost Supper
19:00 - Home Stage - Bella Collins
19:45 - Home Stage - Anna Blackwell
20:30 - Home Stage - Lizzie Carr
21:15 - Home Stage - Panel discussion and Q&A
22:30 - Close
Our Yoga session, walks and talks in bold are free for ticket holders. You'll be prompted to book these sessions at our checkout.