Cotehele

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.

The restored sailing barge 'Shamrock' is moored at the quay where you’ll also be able to treat yourself to a proper Cornish cream tea in the Edgcumbe tea-room. The Discovery Centre here tells the story of the Tamar Valley, offering a gateway to the wider estate and is just a short walk through the Morden valley to our sister property Cotehele Mill.