An atmospheric Tudor house with Medieval roots, a working mill on an historic quay, a glorious garden with valley views and an expansive estate to explore.
Cotehele was the ancestral home to the Edgcumbe family for centuries. The Tudor house, perched high above the River Tamar, is decorated with tapestries, arms and armour, pewter, brass and old oak furniture. The interior tour has changed little over the years, although the furnishings were titivated as Cotehele continued to inspire its adoring owners.
Outside, explore the formally planted terraces, or lose yourself in the Valley Garden, which includes a medieval stewpond and dovecote and leads down to the river. Seek tranquillity in the Upper Garden or visit the two orchards planted with local apples and cherries.
From early spring flowers to herbaceous borders in high season, to the orchards in the autumn and snow drops in winter, you’ll find horticultural activity all year round.
In the 19th century local industries boomed and Cotehele Quay bustled with vessels loading and unloading cargo. Paddle steamers came upriver to see the Tamar Valley’s famous blossoming orchards and small boats carried market-gardening produce back down the river for sale at Devonport Market.
Bringing your dogs
There’s load of space for your four-legged friends to stretch heir legs around Cotehele. Explore miles of paths through the woodlands and around the quay or just relax in the Barn Restaurant or the Edgcumbe at the Quay. Only assistance dogs are allowed in the house, formal gardens and orchards.
Worth knowing
It wouldn’t be a National Trust visit without a break for cake. Stop by the Barn Restaurant or The Edgcumbe for a cream tea, grab an ice cream from the quay kiosk or find the perfect picnic spot in the meadow. The shops are a great place to pick up a gift or plant, and you can discover local artists at the Bull Pen Gallery.
