
Cockington Country Park and Lakes
A centuries-old Doomsday Book village with manicured parkland, serene lakes, and vibrant craft studios.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blissfully quiet even in peak season

Cockington Country Park and Lakes
Best Time
Blissfully quiet even in peak season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A centuries-old Doomsday Book village with manicured parkland, serene lakes, and vibrant craft studios.
"Absolutely stunning little village which is full of historical charm!"

🎯 Navigate Narrow Lanes
Be prepared for typical Devon lanes to reach Cockington; they can be narrow but add to the charm!
🅿️ Ample Parking Available
Don't worry if one car park is full; there are several options around the park.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cockington Village
Cockington
A perfectly preserved 600+ year old village with thatched cottages and a historic church.

Craft Studios
Cob Barn and surrounding shops
Watch artisans at work, from glass blowing to blacksmithing, and find unique handmade souvenirs.

Ornamental Lakes
Cockington Country Park
Serene lakes surrounded by parkland, offering a peaceful spot for a stroll and wildlife spotting.

Cockington Forge
Cockington Village
A 14th-century forge that has remarkably survived centuries, showcasing historical craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm, Prepare for Lanes
Parking and Picnic Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Navigate Narrow Lanes
Be prepared for typical Devon lanes to reach Cockington; they can be narrow but add to the charm!
🅿️ Ample Parking Available
Don't worry if one car park is full; there are several options around the park.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a picnic to enjoy the vast parkland, or grab treats from the pub, cafe, or ice cream shop.
💎 Watch Artisans at Work
Don't miss the craft studios, especially the glass blowing, for unique handmade items.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Navigate Narrow Lanes
Be prepared for typical Devon lanes to reach Cockington; they can be narrow but add to the charm!
🅿️ Ample Parking Available
Don't worry if one car park is full; there are several options around the park.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a picnic to enjoy the vast parkland, or grab treats from the pub, cafe, or ice cream shop.
💎 Watch Artisans at Work
Don't miss the craft studios, especially the glass blowing, for unique handmade items.
☕ Savor Local Delights
Try the chocolate shop for divine cherry chocolates or enjoy a scone at the cafe.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Pub
The Drum Inn is a reasonably priced, dog-friendly pub near the park entrance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cockington for its historical charm, picturesque village, and beautiful parkland, offering a delightful escape. The craft studios are a major draw, with many appreciating the opportunity to see artisans at work and purchase unique items. While parking is available and entry is free, some note the challenging narrow lanes leading to the park and a slightly disappointing children's play area.
"Lovely historical, picturesque village with cheap parking for the day. Free admission to everything. Beautiful grounds and gardens with working craft centre. Great for a family day out or a romantic stroll. Be prepared for the typical Devon narrow lanes to get to it though. That might put people off going, as it was blissfully quiet for us in the middle of August!"
Ian Sims
"Absolutely stunning little village which is full of historical charm!
We enjoyed a delicious jam and cream scone and a wander through the woodland park. There are craft workshops offering items for sale set in the old barns."
Lynne Hill
"You'll need at least half a day to see and enjoy everything (if the weather is good).
Would recommend the Chocolate shop, the cherry ones were particularly divine.
Don't forget to visit Cob Barn where Allan will talk you through his art in his workshop.
Hoping to buy a steel rose from him at some point.
Also check out the Iron Mongers and surrounding shops, then purchase yourself a cute little handmade glass animal at the glass blowers for a bargain £8."
Huk Salih
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cockington Country Park is located on the edge of Torquay, Devon. Access is via narrow country lanes, which can be a bit challenging but are part of the charm. Many visitors find it best to park and walk into the village and park.
While specific bus routes can vary, local buses do serve the Torquay area, and you can often walk from Torquay town center to Cockington, though it's a significant walk. Checking local bus timetables is recommended.
Follow signs for Cockington from Torquay. Be prepared for narrow, winding lanes as you approach the village.
The main paths in the parkland and village are generally accessible, but some of the older village paths can be uneven. The craft studios and manor house may have varying accessibility.
Cycling is a great way to explore the Devon countryside. There are cycle paths that can lead you towards Cockington, offering scenic routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Cockington Country Park and the village itself is free, making it a great budget-friendly option.
The parkland and village are generally open year-round during daylight hours. Individual craft studios and the manor house may have specific opening times, so it's best to check their individual schedules.
As there is no entrance fee, booking tickets is not required. You can visit spontaneously.
While entry is free, there are charges for parking, and of course, for any purchases made at the craft studios, shops, or eateries.
Cockington Manor House is often used for events and may have limited public access. It's advisable to check its current status and any visiting opportunities before your trip.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the picturesque village, wander through manicured gardens and open parkland, visit craft studios, enjoy the lakes, and discover historical sites like Cockington Forge.
Yes, Cockington Country Park offers numerous walking trails through woodlands and parkland, suitable for various fitness levels.
It's a fantastic family day out with space to roam, charming village atmosphere, and craft activities. However, the children's play area has seen some disrepair.
Dogs are welcome in the parkland and village, but should be kept out of the lakes. The Drum Inn pub is also dog-friendly.
You can find a variety of crafts, including glass blowing, blacksmithing, pottery, and artwork. Many artisans are happy to chat about their work.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a pub (The Drum Inn), a cafe, and an ice cream parlour. You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy in the park.
The Drum Inn is known for being reasonably priced and dog-friendly, offering a good spot for a meal or a drink.
Absolutely! The parkland offers plenty of space for picnics, making it a popular choice for visitors.
While specific menus can vary, cafes and pubs in tourist areas like Cockington usually offer some vegetarian options. It's always best to inquire directly.
Visitors often rave about the scones, especially jam and cream scones, and the chocolates from the local chocolate shop.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charm of the thatched cottages, the serene lakes, the historic forge, and the vibrant craft studios. The gardens in bloom are also very photogenic.
The parkland, lakes, and surrounding countryside offer beautiful landscape photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the village's atmosphere.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking photos inside private workshops, especially if it interferes with the artisans' work.
There are no general restrictions on photography for personal use, but commercial photography may require permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to make the most of the parkland, and don't miss the chance to see the glass blowing or other craft demonstrations, which are often a hit with children. The lakes also offer a chance for wildlife spotting. Remember to be mindful of the narrow lanes when driving to the park.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful parkland, and focus on exploring the free attractions like the village, gardens, and watching the craftspeople. Many visitors find the experience rich and fulfilling without spending a lot of money.
💖 Couples & Romantic Strolls
Consider visiting one of the craft studios together, perhaps picking out a unique memento of your visit. A cream tea or a drink at The Drum Inn can add to the romantic ambiance. The peaceful atmosphere, especially on a weekday, is perfect for quality time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History: Cockington Village
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer authenticity of the village. The narrow, winding lanes leading to Cockington are part of its secluded charm, often keeping it blissfully quiet even during peak tourist seasons. This tranquility allows for a more immersive experience, where you can truly appreciate the architectural heritage and the serene atmosphere.
The Artistic Heart: Cockington's Craft Studios
Visitors often highlight the glass blowing studio as a must-see, with artisans creating beautiful pieces before your eyes. Other studios offer pottery, artwork, and more. The opportunity to chat with the makers and learn about their craft adds a personal touch to your visit, making any purchase feel even more special.
Nature's Embrace: Cockington Country Park
The parkland provides ample space for children to run and play, making it a great destination for families. While the dedicated children's play area has seen some wear and tear, the natural environment itself offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. The lakes are particularly serene, attracting various wildlife, and offer picturesque views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit