Saltram House and Gardens
A refined Georgian mansion with opulent interiors and extensive, picturesque gardens offering a glimpse into aristocratic life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and bluebells bloom
Saltram House and Gardens
Best Time
Blossoms and bluebells bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refined Georgian mansion with opulent interiors and extensive, picturesque gardens offering a glimpse into aristocratic life.
"Every room you enter is just better than the previous one. The gardens are really easy to walk around and really peaceful."
🎯 Consider NT Membership
If you visit multiple National Trust sites, membership offers great value and access.
🚶♀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a leisurely day by bringing your own food to savor in the beautiful grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Interior
Saltram House
Marvel at opulent rooms, period furnishings, and exquisite art. Each room tells a story, making the house a captivating journey through history.
Expansive Gardens
Saltram Gardens
Wander through beautiful gardens, discover seasonal blooms like daffodils and bluebells, and enjoy peaceful riverside walks.
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Chapel Cafe
Old Chapel
Enjoy a delightful break at the charming cafe located in the old chapel, known for its delicious scones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Membership Value
Explore Beyond the House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Consider NT Membership
If you visit multiple National Trust sites, membership offers great value and access. +1
🚶♀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a leisurely day by bringing your own food to savor in the beautiful grounds.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the house and extensive gardens.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The house and gardens are incredibly picturesque, perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Consider NT Membership
If you visit multiple National Trust sites, membership offers great value and access. +1
🚶♀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a leisurely day by bringing your own food to savor in the beautiful grounds.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the house and extensive gardens.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The house and gardens are incredibly picturesque, perfect for photos.
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Room guides are happy to share stories and answer questions about the house.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Saltram House for its stunning interiors and the engaging stories shared by room guides. The extensive gardens are a major draw, offering peaceful walks and beautiful scenery. While some found certain areas less engaging or noted a lack of activities on quieter days, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical richness and natural beauty.
"Saltram is a must visit NT. The house is just wow. Every room you enter is just better than the previous one. The room guides are really happy to talk and answer any questions. The gardens are also really easy to walk around and really peaceful. There is also a beautiful chapel cafe and again the staff were so helpful. One of my favourite properties for sure."
Katherine Lou
"Brilliant house in superb grounds can see for miles every room.had it's own story and the volunteers were happy to tell you all about also lovely cafe you could sit by the lake would thoroughly recommend"
Clive Hobbs
"I suppose because I visited on a Thursday the place felt a bit deserted and top floor of the house was closed off... so overall I walked out feeling a little underwhelmed. There could be more benches to sit on, they could do something about the mouldy smell in the castle folly. Didn't see any activities for kids. The orangery was bare and empty. It was otherwise a lovely place, very pleasant for a short walk around the grounds. There's a little gate (locked) connecting the house grounds with a lovely riverside walk. I enjoyed the walk but you have to head back out to the car park to start the walk. Enjoyed my couple hours there but a little disappointed overall."
Peter Perhac
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saltram House is conveniently located near Plymouth. You can drive there, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might include local buses. For those coming from further afield, Calstock station is a 30-minute train journey from Plymouth, offering a scenic approach.
Yes, there is parking available at Saltram House for visitors. It's a good idea to check the National Trust website for any specific parking charges or restrictions.
While driving is common, public transport is an option. Train services to Calstock station are available from Plymouth, followed by a walk. Local bus routes may also serve the area.
The grounds offer pleasant walks, but some areas might be uneven. The house itself has multiple floors. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for detailed accessibility information regarding the house and gardens.
The nearest train station is Plympton, but Calstock station is a popular option for a scenic approach, being a 30-minute train journey from Plymouth.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for Saltram House and Gardens. If you are a National Trust member, entry is free. It's recommended to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and opening times. +1
Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to guarantee entry. Check the National Trust website for their specific booking policy.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. The house and gardens typically have different opening times. Always consult the National Trust website for the most current information before your visit.
Yes, National Trust membership grants free entry to Saltram House and over 500 other historic places. Many visitors find it a cost-effective option if they plan to visit multiple sites. +1
Saltram House often hosts special events, especially during holidays like Easter, with family-friendly trails and activities. Check their website for upcoming events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Saltram House, you'll find beautifully preserved Georgian interiors, period furnishings, art, and porcelain. Each room has its own unique story, brought to life by knowledgeable room guides.
The gardens offer various routes, including peaceful riverside walks. You can explore different paths each time you visit to discover new scenery.
Yes, Saltram House often provides family-friendly activities, such as garden trails and craft sessions, particularly during school holidays.
Photography rules can vary inside historic houses. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in many areas, but it's best to check for specific signage or ask a member of staff.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and local crafts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a lovely cafe located in the old chapel, offering refreshments and light meals. It's a popular spot for enjoying scones and coffee.
The cafe typically offers a range of options, but it's always best to inquire directly about specific dietary choices like vegetarian or vegan dishes.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the extensive grounds. This is a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
The scones at the coffee shop are highly recommended and are described as amazing.
Yes, the cafe offers seating where you can relax by the lake, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire estate offers fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the house from the gardens, the beauty of the blooming flowers, and the serene riverside views.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's essential to check the specific drone policy for Saltram House before flying.
Absolutely! The Georgian architecture of the house, the ornate ceilings, the orangery, and any follies within the grounds are all highly photogenic.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for both the house and gardens. However, the vibrant colours of spring blooms are also a photographer's dream.
Generally, non-commercial photography is allowed in the gardens. However, always be mindful of other visitors and respect any designated 'no photo' areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider bringing a picnic to make the most of your visit, allowing for a relaxed meal amidst the beautiful surroundings. The variety of walking routes in the grounds also offers opportunities for gentle adventures suitable for younger legs. Don't forget to check the National Trust website for any specific family events or trails happening during your visit.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Focusing on exploring the extensive gardens and parkland can provide hours of enjoyment without additional costs beyond entry. The scenic walks are a highlight and offer a rich experience of the estate's natural beauty.
couples
+1The elegant interiors of the house provide a sophisticated backdrop for a cultural outing, and the charming chapel cafe is perfect for a relaxed coffee or tea break together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Georgian Splendor of Saltram House
+1Many visitors highlight the exceptional quality of the room guides, who are described as knowledgeable and enthusiastic. They play a crucial role in bringing the history of Saltram to life, sharing anecdotes and answering questions that enrich the visitor experience. The house's connection to historical figures and events, including its appearance in film adaptations of Jane Austen novels, adds another layer of fascination for history buffs.
While the house itself is a major draw, the surrounding estate is equally impressive. The grounds were landscaped by Capability Brown, creating a picturesque setting that complements the grandeur of the mansion. Exploring these grounds offers a different perspective on the estate's history and its connection to the natural landscape.
Exploring the Saltram Estate and Gardens
For those who enjoy walking, Saltram provides numerous routes. The riverside walk is particularly recommended, offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. Some visitors mention a locked gate that connects the house grounds to this riverside path, requiring a return to the car park to access the full trail. The variety of routes means you can have a different experience each time you visit.
Beyond the visual appeal, the estate is a place for relaxation and enjoyment. Many visitors suggest packing a picnic to fully immerse themselves in the experience, making a day of it amidst the beautiful scenery. The old chapel has been converted into a charming cafe, providing a perfect spot to rest and refuel, with its scones being a particular highlight.
The National Trust Membership Advantage
Members often feel a sense of belonging and a connection to the preservation efforts of the National Trust. The membership not only provides free entry but also supports the vital work of maintaining these heritage sites for future generations. It encourages a deeper engagement with the history and culture embedded within these locations.
Beyond financial benefits, membership can foster a spirit of exploration. It encourages visitors to discover new places they might not have considered otherwise, turning a simple outing into an adventure. The flexibility of a membership allows for repeat visits to favorite spots or the discovery of hidden gems.
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