Explore the history of Devon & Cornwall

Accessible by foot during low tide or by boat at high tide, St Michael’s Mount is a small island with a stunning medieval castle and gardens. The castle, originally a monastery, offers a blend of history and stunning vistas over Mount’s Bay. Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms, including the Great Hall and chapel, and enjoy the beautiful gardens that feature rare plants and sweeping views of the sea.
 

Pendennis Castle stands as one of the finest examples of Henry VIII’s coastal fortifications, strategically perched on a headland overlooking the Fal Estuary. Built-in the mid-16th century, this castle played a crucial role in defending England against invasion threats, from the Spanish Armada to the English Civil War. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ramparts, gun towers, and the Tudor keep, all offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. 

No visit to Cornwall is complete without a stop at Tintagel Castle. Perched dramatically on a rugged cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The site’s modern visitor centre and exhibition offers insights into the history of the castle. Don’t miss the stunning coastal views and the dramatic bridge linking the mainland to the castle.

Hartland Abbey is a gem in North Devon’s historic crown. This 12th-century abbey, once home to Cistercian monks, offers a glimpse into monastic life and medieval architecture. Hartland Abbey’s beautifully preserved gardens and interiors are complemented by the surrounding natural beauty. 

Clovelly is a charming, car-free village that feels like stepping back in time. Its cobbled streets, lined with traditional cottages and quaint shops, lead down to a picturesque harbour. Clovelly’s history as a fishing village is reflected in its maritime museum and the restored 18th-century manor house, which offers a glimpse into the life of its former residents.

Exeter Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 12th century and is renowned for its intricate fan vaulting and beautiful stained glass windows. The cathedral’s Chapter House and Cloisters add to the sense of history and grandeur.

Wheal Coates is a striking remnant of the region's rich mining heritage, dramatically perched on the rugged cliffs of St Agnes. This historic tin mine dates back to the 18th century, and offers visitors a glimpse into Cornwall’s industrial past, with its iconic engine houses standing as silent against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The breathtaking coastal scenery, combined with the evocative ruins of Wheal Coates, makes it an essential stop for those interested in Cornwall’s mining legacy and the dramatic landscapes that define this historic region.

Nestled in North Devon, is a marvel of Victorian engineering that connects the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth via a steep, scenic cliff railway. Opened in 1890, this water-powered funicular railway is the highest and steepest fully water-powered railway in the world, designed to transport passengers and goods up and down the 500-foot cliff with ease. As you ascend or descend, you are treated to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, wooded valleys, and the picturesque harbour below.

Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Porthcurno, The Minack Theatre is an extraordinary open-air venue renowned for its stunning coastal backdrop and unique architectural design. Built by the visionary Rowena Cade in the 1930s, this remarkable amphitheatre is carved into the granite cliffside, offering uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Cornish coastline.