The gardens are an intrinsic part of the presentation of Corke Lodge. Planted as a pleasure ground soon after 1815, it contains fine specimens of Evergreen Oaks, American Cedars and Sequoias as well as a magnificent Cork tree. These were meant to evoke a Mediterranean olive grove, in keeping with the Italianate trend. Because of a favorable microclimate the gardens now boast an extensive and rare collection of subtropical plants and trees that reflect the spirit of the original concept of 1815.