Coleton Fishacre
A stunning 1920s Art Deco house and exotic gardens with breathtaking sea views, nestled on the South Devon coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Coleton Fishacre
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 1920s Art Deco house and exotic gardens with breathtaking sea views, nestled on the South Devon coast.
"A magical place that will stay in my memory as a highlight of my Devon holiday."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden paths are steep and can be challenging. Good footwear is essential for exploring!
🚗 Narrow Road Access
The road to Coleton Fishacre is very narrow with passing places. Drive carefully and be prepared to reverse.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 1920s House
Coleton Fishacre House
Immerse yourself in the Art Deco elegance of this 1920s home, once owned by the D'Oyly Carte family.
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Exotic Coastal Gardens
Coleton Fishacre Gardens
Wander through lush, subtropical gardens with stunning sea views and a path leading to a secluded cove.
Secluded Cove
Bottom of the garden path
Discover a hidden gem at the bottom of the garden, offering breathtaking coastal vistas.
Arts and Crafts Architecture
Coleton Fishacre House
Appreciate the beautiful Arts and Crafts styling and architecture of this unique country house.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills
Art Deco Charm & Family History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden paths are steep and can be challenging. Good footwear is essential for exploring!
🚗 Narrow Road Access
The road to Coleton Fishacre is very narrow with passing places. Drive carefully and be prepared to reverse.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Stop by the cafe for a coffee and a delicious flapjack or other treats to refuel.
🎒 Use Free Lockers
Free lockers are available under a covered driveway to store bags and backpacks.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden paths are steep and can be challenging. Good footwear is essential for exploring!
🚗 Narrow Road Access
The road to Coleton Fishacre is very narrow with passing places. Drive carefully and be prepared to reverse.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Stop by the cafe for a coffee and a delicious flapjack or other treats to refuel.
🎒 Use Free Lockers
Free lockers are available under a covered driveway to store bags and backpacks.
☀️ Arrive Early on Sunny Days
To avoid crowds and secure the best spots, consider visiting earlier in the day, especially on sunny weekends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Coleton Fishacre for its beautifully preserved 1920s house and stunning, exotic gardens that lead to a picturesque cove. The friendly staff and excellent cafe are also frequently highlighted. However, some find the food a bit pricey and the steep garden paths challenging.
"My favourite national trust property. The house is interesting with fabulous views and information about the family. The garden is wonderful and has stunning views to the sea. Cafe was excellent too. On sunny days maybe get there early. Highly recommended. Can easily spend best part of a day here."
Gareth Bell
"A truly beautiful and tranquil home that is nestled into the landscape. The house is in an exceptionally good condition and the National Trust has maintained it perfectly. Beautiful building, beautiful gardens and wonderful staff who are on hand to answer all of your questions."
The Lion
"I'm making use of a National Trust membership that was gifted to me and so it's my mission to visit any in the areas I find myself in.
So far Coleton Fishacre has been the most wonderful one yet. I really enjoy the homely feel of the house, it feels grand but not too grand if you know what I mean. It feels like it would be a very comfortable home and not too stately.
The 1920s styling is superb.
The staff and volunteers were friendly and helpful, on hand to answer questions and give a demonstration of the servants bell system.
There are free lockers provided outside the building but under a covered driveway for leaving bags and backpacks.
The gardens, my words won't do it justice. They are simply stunning in mid June, the colours, the water leading you downhill to the sea. Magical.
The paths are all downhill towards the viewpoint on the cliffs and are steep in places. They'll put your legs, back and fitness to the test that's for sure.
I had a coffee and the most delicious flapjack at the NT cafe, do stop by to build your energy either before or after the climb up and down the paths.
A magical place that will stay in my memory as a highlight of my Devon holiday for a long time.
The road there was very narrow with lots of passing points but can be a little unnerving for even experienced drivers, expect to have to reverse back to a passing point."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coleton Fishacre is located in Kingswear, Devon. The nearest train station is Dartmouth. From Dartmouth, you can take a bus or taxi. The road leading to the property is very narrow, so drive with caution and be prepared for passing places.
Yes, there is free parking available for visitors, including National Trust members.
Cycling is possible, but be aware of the narrow and potentially hilly roads in the surrounding area.
You can reach the general area by bus, but the final approach to the property might require a taxi or a walk. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
The approach road is famously narrow. Drive slowly, use passing places, and be prepared to reverse if necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for non-National Trust members. Check the official National Trust website for current prices. Members get free entry.
Opening hours vary by season. It's best to check the National Trust website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before your visit.
Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to guarantee entry. Check the National Trust website for booking requirements.
National Trust membership provides free entry. Look for potential discounts or family packages on the National Trust website.
Typically, garden access is included with the house entry. Check the National Trust website for specific ticket options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the beautifully preserved 1920s house, wander through the stunning subtropical gardens, and discover the secluded cove. There are also informative displays about the D'Oyly Carte family.
The gardens are beautiful but very hilly with steep paths. While there's plenty to see near the house, reaching the cove involves a challenging walk.
Generally, dogs are not permitted inside the house or formal gardens, but may be allowed in certain areas or on the coastal path. Check the National Trust's specific dog policy.
There is a cafe, gift shop, and free lockers for storing belongings. Toilets are also available.
Many visitors find they can easily spend best part of a day here, especially if they explore the house and gardens thoroughly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe that offers a selection of drinks, snacks, and light meals, including flapjacks and toasties.
The cafe typically serves coffee, tea, cakes, pasties, toasties, and baked potatoes.
Some visitors find the food a little expensive, but generally reasonable in quality.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's worth checking with the National Trust if designated picnic spots are available.
Typically, bringing your own food for consumption within the main visitor areas might be restricted. It's best to enjoy the cafe's offerings or check their policy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the house and gardens, but check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods.
The Art Deco interiors, the sweeping garden vistas, and the coastal views from the cove are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check their official guidelines.
Yes, commercial photography and filming usually require prior permission and may incur fees. Contact the National Trust directly.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer beautiful light for the gardens and house. Misty conditions can also create dramatic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the gardens are beautiful, the steep and winding paths might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. 🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, and ensure you have adequate water and sturdy footwear. 📸 Photographers
+1 The dramatic coastal views from the cove are a must-capture. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' for the best light, or embrace misty conditions for atmospheric shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The D'Oyly Carte Legacy
+1 Lady Dorothy and Rupert D'Oyly Carte commissioned the house, which was built between 1925 and 1926, to be a stylish and comfortable home that reflected their love for the arts and a glamorous lifestyle. The interiors are a testament to the era, showcasing exquisite Art Deco design and furnishings that transport visitors back in time. Exploring the house offers a glimpse into the lives of this prominent theatrical family, with personal touches and historical artifacts adding depth to the experience. The National Trust has meticulously preserved the house, ensuring that its 1920s character and charm are maintained. Volunteers and staff are often on hand to share fascinating anecdotes and historical details about the family and the house's construction.
Gardens and Coastal Path
+1 They feature a variety of exotic and subtropical plants, creating a lush and vibrant landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons. +1 Visitors can wander through winding paths, discover hidden nooks, and enjoy the stunning views that unfold as you descend towards the coast. A significant feature of the garden is the path that leads down to a secluded cove on the coast.
Photography Opportunities
+1 Capturing the interplay of light and shadow within the rooms can create striking images. The gardens themselves are a photographer's dream, especially during spring and summer when the plants are in full bloom.
+1 The winding paths, lush foliage, and sea views offer endless compositions. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the colours and textures of the landscape. For astrophotographers, the dark skies away from light pollution can be ideal for capturing the Milky Way, as demonstrated in some stunning night shots. 
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