Cotehele is a grand Tudor house close to Calstock in Cornwall, perched above the River Tamar. From the outside, the house is a lovely mish-mash of architecture that ranges from different periods. Though mostly rebuilt in Tudor times, the chapel was first consecrated as early as 1411 and is certainly worth a visit when it is open. The Edgcumbes, a family who owned and inhabited Cotehele from the 14th century, developed more of the house and interiors during the 18th century, and the Georgian Edgcumbes gathered a brilliant antique collection of furniture and tapestries that visitors can still view today.
Unlike some other National Trust properties, parts of Cotehele are still open over the festive period. Beautiful flowers that have been grown on the estate are woven into a large Christmas garland which you can see for yourself in the Tudor Hall. This year's measures 100 ft!
Image: National Trust (http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele)
Aside from Christmas and Boxing day the hall and breakfast room are open daily from 11am to 4pm until December 31st. Making your visit extra festive will be the 24 music and choral groups that will be performing under the garland throughout this time, so why not come along and get into the Christmas spirit?
For younger guests a visit to Santa's grotto is always memorable. Between the 19th – 23rd December Father Christmas will be waiting at Cotehele to greet visitors. Don't forget you can explore Cotehele's gardens and estate too; if you fancy a walk in the crisp winter air you can discover it in all its seasonal glory. The orchards feature more than 120 varieties of apple and will be decorated in mistletoe. Cotehele's garden has been evolving since the 16th century when it was first laid, and today you'll find a variety of plants and different themed areas.
Image: National Trust (http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele)
After a chilly walk it's always nice to finish with something warm as a pick-me-up. There are two restaurants to choose from – The Barn Restaurant and the Edgcumbe tea room – where you can enjoy festive food and seasonal goodies. The gift shop is open for those last minute Christmas presents or, if you want to stay inside, the art gallery is currently hosting the Snowflakes exhibition while there is a First World War exhibition taking place in the Breakfast Room of the house. So lots to see and do over Christmas.
Take a look on their website for more information. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele
Or to stay in Cornwall yourself, simply follow the link below.
