EASTCLIFF Park, perched on the cliff top in East Teignmouth, has long since been a quiet haven for dog walkers, nature lovers and those coming inland from the south west coastal path.

The wide expanse of open meadows, marked out with brilliant bright pathways, is like a huge lung for the town. With native species of wildflower and hedgerows, the park has a natural charm that is so attractive to wildlife. But while the joy of open countryside remains, the foundations of the park dedicated to the town by the Mules family have long since eroded.

There are still hidden gems to be found, though these days it takes more time and is arguably only for the sure-footed. Once upon a time, the watery Dell, walled gardens and the Rowdens was a showpiece of municipal parkland.

It incorporated the best of regency- style planting; so typical of a seaside resort that was attracting the wealthy health seekers to the coast in the early 19th century. The plans evolved over the decades, from Regency to the Victorian love of exotica and the rise of horticulture as a hobby.

In the early 1900s, the Dell was a showpiece of Australasian planting, illustrating perfectly the mood of the era.

The Mules family bought Cliffden in 1927 and it became a retreat for women suffering with psychiatric conditions. They would recuperate in the gardens, just as many find solace there today. Despite a decline in maintenance during the second world war, there is no doubt that the efforts by the Mules family ensured that the grounds are still there to be enjoyed today.

Once a showpiece of Victorian and Regency horticulture, taking a turn on to the well-worn paths from the main park is like stepping into a secret garden. The legacy is still there, but now it is the domain of overgrown flora. From the formal sweep of The Rowdens with its arboricultural interest and shrubberies, visitors walk towards the walled garden.

It sounds wonderfully promising and conjures images of exotic species enjoying the warmer climes afforded by its sheltering stone walls.

Alas, metal padlocked gates – once busted open – look on to an overgrown scrub of wasteland, despite ardent efforts by The Friends of Eastcliff. Graffiti artists have been at work and others have carelessly discarded empties.

It is a sorry sight but indicative of many areas that have been neglected not through a lack of will but by resources. On, then, to The Dell, and even in its overgrown state it is quite a find to stumble upon.

Majestic bowls of sun-dappled gunnera are testament to the efforts of plant lovers. Bamboo, some kind of tree ferns and a beautiful display of arum lilies also show how much this area was once and still is cared for.

The water pools are thick with silt and debris. Half close your eyes and leave the rest to the imagination and you are in Swallows and Amazons. It is a really surprising little place, but it is unfortunate that empty beer cans are once again evidence that you are not the first to find it, but definitely one who appreciates it.

The future of the park is subject to a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund. Teignbridge Council has put together plans to restore the historical features of the park according to records and photographs.

The aim is to make the area more accessible and restore it to its former glory with contemporary planting schemes and features, including statues. The beautiful walled garden could become a venue for theatre and the arts.

More news on the success of the bid is due next month. Indeed, work has been done already. A smart ropewalk and steps lead visitors from the car park to the open space. Pathways have been cut to aid guests at the Action for Blind People hotel at Clifden and maintenance is ongoing. But money is needed to improve on that, to build on people's enthusiasm and restore the park to its full potential as a highlight of Teignmouth.