The Steward’s House, the beautiful, listed building located in the middle of The Lost Gardens of Heligan, is reopening this autumn after a full refurbishment project to bring this wonderful historic property back to life.
Nestled in the heart of the gardens, surrounded by pom-pom hydrangeas, blooms of lilacs in blues and cream, The Steward’s House has undergone a beautiful restoration, transforming it into the perfect destination for all-day dining, from early birds through to those enjoying the last golden moments of the day. In time, the House will also welcome events and intimate weddings, and host beautiful, stylish celebrations surrounded by the magic of the Lost Gardens.
Ramon Van de Velda, MD of The Lost Gardens of Heligan said “Following an extensive renovation, during which we have celebrated 30 years of the Lost Gardens being open to the public, we are delighted to once more be able to invite visitors to enjoy The Steward’s House. Designed and sensitively restored by our own amazing team, working closely with two Heligan-inspired Cornish artists, and using materials from Heligan’s woods wherever possible, we have been able to return this historic treasure into a beautiful space again. Situated at the heart of the Heligan estate, the interior design of The Steward’s House connects past and present, and inside and out. The historic house and its redesigned garden are already being enjoyed on a daily basis as a dining space, but is now also available for special celebrations. We look forward to sharing it with our guests, for many years to come.”
The Steward’s House was built around 1850 as a home for the Farm Steward of Heligan, John Way, followed by Samuel Gillard, James Wonnacott, John Martyn and then George Hay Henderson. The building was extended to at the start of WWI when Squire Jack Tremayne moved in as Heligan House was converted for use as a Convalescent Hospital for officers of the Royal Flying Corps.
Since then, The Steward’s House has been used as seasonal tearoom and offices, until last autumn, when it was closed to carry out these exciting and forward-thinking renovations by the Garden’s skilled restoration team led by Andy Wilson, and local builder Damon Whetter. Using beautiful Farrow & Ball colours to reflect the beautiful surroundings, the team have created a space that offers a warm welcome, with inspiring interiors and wonderful artwork. Exposed brickwork and an original cob wall rub shoulders with soft blue tones and warm French Gray to ensure a relaxing, stylish atmosphere.
At the heart of The Steward’s House is the exquisite tree sculpture by Cornish artist James Eddy, which weaves and bends its way through the walls and ceiling, as though the nature of Heligan has magically grown up through the house. Each branch glistens with handmade leaves and acorns, by St Ives-based artist, Sharon McSwiney – their rich red copper & golden patinated brass hand-drawn shapes shimmering in the flickering candlelight, each leaf unique.
The emphasis in The Steward’s House is to relax and envelope guests in a Heligan welcome, with deep leather armchairs and pastel-coloured woven blankets to keep the chill at bay. Fresh flowers cut from Heligan’s gardens adorn each table, bright and colourful against the slate flooring, with soft light from St Eval candles gently dancing over the room. There is a nod to Heligan’s famous fruits, with a Pineapple Lantern hanging proudly in the entrance hall.
Surrounded by the blooms of the garden, from dahlias of all colours and shapes, hydrangeas and more – on a summer’s day guests can spill out from the conservatory onto the garden. As the nights draw in, and the candles and fire are lit, there is no better place to cosy up with warming soups and homemade delights from the Heligan Bakery.
The menu is full of Heligan’s favourite dishes – with the ingredients sourced from their own Productive Gardens, just a short walk from the kitchens, the field to fork measurement is a matter of metres. From early morning coffee and breakfast, through to delicious lunches and teas, The Steward’s House is the go-to for a taste of Heligan hospitality.
Photo Credits to John Hershey
