Houses And Gardens
Here are a number of suggestions of beautiful historical houses and gardens to visit. You can connect to each individual website to gain further information by clicking on the corresponding image.
Click on the marked attractions 
on the map below for more information, or keep scrolling through to see them all...
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Cotehele House and Quay (National Trust)
This is a fortified medieval house and richly planted garden with a quay, mill and variety of woodland walks, a mile or so riverside walk from Calstock.
The Garden House
This is 8 acres of glorious gardens, including a two-acre walled garden, with some wonderful panoramic views over stunning South Devon landscape. Teas and light lunches are served in the house.
Buckland Abbey (National Trust)
This is a 13th century abbey, later converted into the home of Sir Francis Drake. Explore the legendary life of Sir Francis Drake and the Armada.
Morwellham Quay
Sadly this unique World Heritage Site went into receivership last year and has been closed. The good news is that it has now been privately bought and word is that it is due to re–open later this year.
Castle Drogo (National Trust)
The castle and grounds are lovely to visit, and during the school holidays there are all sorts of fun and adventurous activities going on for the little'uns.
Finch Foundry (National Trust)
This is an early 19th century forge, powered by three water wheels, which produced sickles, scythes and shovels for both agriculture and mining.
Saltram House (National Trust)
This is an exquisitely furnished and decorated 18th century mansion set in a period garden and 500 acre landscaped park.
Lanhydrock House and Gardens
The grandest and most welcoming house in Cornwall, set in 450 acres of woods and parkland running down to the Fowey river and encircled by formal and woodland gardens, lovely in all seasons.
Okehampton Castle
14th century ruins, once the largest castle in Devon. Although ruined, the gravity defying keep still stands tall in its tranquil setting of woodland and with a river running past.
Dartmouth Castle
It stands in a superb waterside location, guarding the entrance to the Dart estuary. Magnificent battlement views and a fascinating history make the castle the perfect venue for a great day out.
Totnes Castle
Over 900 years old. On a hilltop with super views over the river Dart. Worth a visit when visiting the lovely town of Totnes.
Distillery Tour
Plymouth Gin!! Ooooh! Yum, yum! Plymouth Gin is the only English gin still made at its original distillery. The Black Friars Distillery in Plymouth, the oldest working English distillery - since 1793.
RHS Rosemoor
Whatever the season, the garden is a unique and enchanting place that people return to time and time again to find ideas and inspiration.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
These gardens have been in existence for more than 400 years. This makes a really full day out. Enjoy The Jungle, the productive gardens, the Lost Valley, Farm Walk and the pleasure grounds.
The Eden Project
The famous biomes, tropical and Mediterranean gardens built in an old used up quarry. Plans for a new building to house a desert landscape in a 'bowed tennis racket shape’!
Pencarrow
Internationally known gardens with over 700 different varieties of rhododendrons, camellias, blue hydrangeas and specimen conifers. 50 acres in all.
Trelissick (National Trust)
This tranquil garden and estate is renowned for its glorious position at the head of Carrick Roads, with panoramic views down the estuary towards Falmouth and the sea.
