Members and partners from the Arts Society New Forest spent a thoroughly enjoyable 5 days exploring stately homes, gardens, churches and museums in South Devon.
The visits would have been most enjoyable anyway but were made so much better by our superb guide – Julia. Her vast knowledge was amazing and ranged from telling us about the countryside as we drove down to detailed information about the places we visited. She also ensured that we were all kept safe and comfortable. So a big thank you to Julia.
Our first stop was a very welcome coffee and biscuits in Poundbury and then onto Cadhay House built in 1550 with a central courtyard and extensive grounds.
Our excellent guide took us through the family changes and showed us many of the delights of the house including this splendid fireplace…
…with the detail in the corners……and the beautiful furniture built by the current owner-Rupert Thistlethwaite who is a nephew of the last of the William-Powletts.The last room we visited the beautiful beams had not been covered as in previous rooms
The gardens were also quite splendid
We then drove onto our hotel in Dartmouth with its beautiful views
The following morning we set off for Saltram House, the impressive Grade1 listed Georgian mansion House-the work of architect Robert Adam.Another excellent guide took us around, showing us the exquisitely designed rooms……with beautiful balanced and decorated interiors……and wonderful furniture……most of which was the work of Theresa Robinson – the wife of John Parker 2nd.In the bedrooms we were surprised to see the oriental influence which was quite innovative at the time with the Chinese wallpaper so rare and valuable.
After a delicious lunch we set off for Antony. A National Trust house where the owners – Tremayne and his wife Charlie and young family, are still resident.
On the Wednesday we took the ferry to Greenway – the home of Agatha Christie. The beautiful sunshine made journey all the more enjoyable.
The house was as it was when Agathe Christie lived there, complete with soft toys and dolls.
And before we left it was good to relax in the garden and admire the view.
On our return to Dartmouth we had time to explore the town a little and found the church most interesting.
On our final day we spent a glorious morning visiting the house and gardens at Kingswear – the home of the D’Oyley Carte family with its wonderful art deco interior and furniture. The gardens were quite breathtaking with stunning views.