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.