With sweeping drifts of flowers, vibrant scents and fresh seasonal growth, visitors to the world‑renowned global gardens are invited to experience Eden at one of the most uplifting moments in its horticultural calendar.
Alongside the seasonal displays, visitors can also enjoy a series of special celebratory offers and new experiences across the site during March and April, as Eden marks its 25th anniversary year – a milestone for the educational charity, which has welcomed more than 25 million visitors and inspired millions to reconnect with nature since opening in a former Cornish clay pit in 2001.
This year’s floral displays centre on bold new plantings, including Narcissus ‘Carlton’, showcased en masse. Known for its ruffled, bright yellow blooms and strong fragrance, the award‑winning daffodil variety has been a gardener’s favourite for nearly a century – and holds particular significance in Cornwall, where daffodils are woven into the county’s spring landscape and horticultural heritage – now forming a radiant golden sweep within Eden.
In addition to the radiant sweeps of yellow across the site, Tulipa sylvestris brings lemon‑scented elegance as it naturalises beautifully, while Leucojum aestivum (summer snowflakes) flourish in long‑lasting drifts beside the waterways.
Across the outdoor gardens, magnolias have begun their annual display. Magnolia ‘Galaxy’ rises in deep rose‑pink along the zig-zag steps to the Arena – the home to the winter ice rink and lively summer Eden sessions - while a second breathtaking magnolia near the Mini Beast Mansion play area adds further spring colour.
At the entrance to the Japan area, Magnolia loebneri ‘Leonard Messel’ opens star‑shaped, pale pink blossoms that mark one of the garden’s most elegant spring moments and newly planted cherry trees are expected to produce their first blossom towards the end of March, joined by more established cherries planted two to three years ago, now developing into reliable early‑spring performers.
Inside the Mediterranean Biome, richly scented hyacinths fill the terrace with fragrance, soon giving way to vibrant pots of tulips that echo the region’s traditional horticultural palettes.
As visitors approach Eden, the 180‑acre Outer Estate – home to wildflower meadows, orchards, woodlands and even hidden artworks, all connected by a vast network of bridleways and footpaths – also begins its own transformation. More than 10 kilometres of Cornish hedges are dotted with primulas, pussy willows and soft catkins, offering an immediate reminder of the living landscape that frames Eden and an early signal of the season’s arrival.
Peter Jones, Director of Horticulture at the Eden Project, said: “Spring is one of the most uplifting times at Eden, when months of careful planning and planting come to life almost overnight. After one of the wettest winters on record, with many communities across the region – and country – feeling the impact of heartbreaking winter conditions, the first signs of spring feel especially uplifting this year, as the gardens begin to stir with colour once again.
“The scale and diversity of our bulb displays this year are truly exceptional. From the vast sweeps of ‘Carlton’ daffodils to the exquisite wild tulips and the carpets of summer snowflakes, the whole garden feels alive with colour, fragrance and movement. It’s a wonderful moment to reconnect with nature and to see the landscape at its most joyous.”
Alongside the horticultural displays, families visiting this spring can enjoy the Easter Dragon Egg Trail from 3–19 April, weaving immersive storytelling through the landscape. The Giant Marble Runs – an exciting new permanent play addition – launches on Saturday 28 March, inviting visitors of all ages to follow beautifully carved wooden marbles as they journey through imaginative wooden tracks set into the gardens.
As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, Eden is joining National Lottery Open Week, with free entry offered between 7 and 15 March for anyone presenting a valid National Lottery ticket or scratchcard. Mother’s Day also falls within this period, and Eden will offer a complimentary glass of sparkling wine to all mums dining in the Mediterranean Biome on 14 and 15 March, to help families enjoy a memorable Mother’s Day visit together among the blooms. Every mother will also receive a bunch of daffodils to make the day even more special.
All spring activities are included with standard admission. Marbles for the Giant Marble Runs can be hired for a £5 returnable deposit.
Admission to Eden starts from £35.50 for adults and £12 for children, with under‑fives admitted free.
Visitors receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit or UK Legacy Credit can enter for £15 for an adult and £7.50 for a child, and Devon and Cornwall residents can purchase a Locals' Pass from £29.80 per adult and £12 per child, representing a possible saving of more than 30 per cent, available year‑round.
For more information and to pre‑book online for the best price, visit www.edenproject.com.
