On the South Devon coast, just below Brixham, sits the National Trust owned country house Coleton Fishacre. Built for Rupert D’Oyly Carte and his wife, Lady Dorothy Carte in an Art’s and Craft’s style, the interior of the house is more modern and is very much Art Deco in style.
Now grade II listed, the location of the house was chosen by the couple while out sailing. The properties twenty-four acres of stunning garden stretch all the way to the sea and took six staff to maintain when it was owned by D’Oyly Carte’s. Along with stunning views out to sea, the garden features some rare and exotic plants that are able to grow there thanks to the proximity of the Gulf Stream that runs close to this part of the Devon coast.
Between Easter and November, you can take an afternoon stroll with a knowledgeable member of the gardening team who will highlight all of the interesting features of the garden. There’s also a licensed café serving light lunches and a shop selling items with an Art Deco influence.
Something to be aware of is that the incline down to the sea can be quite steep in places, so you might find it a bit of an effort to walk back up.
If you want more to see, the beautiful town of Dartmouth is close by with its Naval College and its beautiful historic streets. A bit further round the coast you’ll find the lovely Blackpool Sands beach and Slapton Ley National Nature reserve a little further on.
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