Cotehele
Squirreled away in a steep, sheltered valley on the west bank of the River Tamar, this sprawling National Trust garden surrounds a striking medieval house.
This 15th Century house with its historical garden and woodland has inspired artists, keen gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts throughout the centuries. The formal gardens outside the main house overlook a valley garden with a medieval dovecote, pond, Victorian summerhouse and 18th-century tower. Peek inside the granite and slate-stone walls of Cotehele house and discover a grand interior adorned with superb collections of rich textiles, armour and antique furniture.
There are several interesting historical buildings scattered over the entire estate, including Cotehele Mill, Cotehele Quay, the Chapel in the Wood, the ruins of Danescombe's Sawmill and Papermill and the mines of Danescombe Valley. Sit and savour the air of history from the tearoom situated amongst the quay's cluster of charming old buildings and boats, where the restored Tamar sailing barge, Shamrock, is moored.
With so much to discover, it's only fair that the kids get to join in. And with educational activity sessions to capture their interest, this really is a family friendly place to visit. Play I-Spy as you spot birdlife in the reed-beds, see who can find Tarka the otter in the stream, run through the blankets of bluebells in spring, and hunt for bugs in the fungi-smothered branches.
Even the most energetic garden-goers won't get to discover the whole 1,289 acres that the estate covers, but this is the perfect garden for walkers who don't mind climbing the steep valley sides. Meander through the 15 acres of formal gardens, before wandering into over 250 acres of mature woodland, where the spectrum of changing colours is at its best beneath the autumn canopies. Arrive early in the day to catch the best of the wildlife that thrives along the reed-beds and riverbank, but if you want to buff-up on your history then follow one of the scheduled guided walks.
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