Visitors
find themselves transported to a magical land, so peaceful you can
almost hear a pin drop. Narrow winding lanes open out onto beautiful
chocolate box cottages, old English gardens and thatched gift shops.
These sell locally produced crafts and Devonshire Cream Teas.
There
are 450 acres of parkland, woodland and lakes to explore. The lakes
themselves are thought to have been created by monks living at nearby
Torre Abbey, to supply them with fresh fish and were restored by
local landowner, Richard Mallock before he died in 1900.
On
the edge of the woods is the famous Gamekeeper's Cottage dating back
to the 16th century. The Gamekeeper was entrusted with raising pheasants,
hares, duck and rabbits and keeping the area free of poachers. Today
the cottage is the meeting place for many guided woodland walks.
In
the centre of Cockington amongst the pretty thatched cottages stands
The Forge. This is one of the most photographed buildings in the
country, and dates from the 14th century. In fact, the oldest postcard
featuring the village was of the Forge taken in the 1890's. It was
unusual for that time as it was taken in winter. Unfortunately,
no longer a working forge, it is now home to the famous miniature
horseshoe. There are hundreds of brasses to choose from and they
make wonderful gifts.
The
village also has its own Inn situated across the road from the car
park. It has fine views, friendly staff, log fires in winter and great
food. There is outside seating and a varied menu to suit all tastes.
It also welcomes families and children can play safely in the gardens.
The Drum Inn, completed in 1936, also has a thatched roof in keeping
with the rest of the area and was designed by the famous architect
Sir Edwin Lutyens.
The
wooden footpath through the Drum's gardens opens onto the village
cricket ground which provides the venue for many open-air events
throughout the year. One of these events is the annual "Last
Night Of The Proms" which attracts thousands of people and
raises funds for many local charities. Visitors can also spend a
lazy summer afternoon watching the local cricket teams battle it
out!
At
the end of the cricket field is the stately manor house, Cockington
Court. The building was originally owned by the De Cockington family
between 1130 and 1350, but the exact age of the Court is unknown.
There are weddings held today in the stately rooms and the second
floor houses many traditional craft studios. These are open 7 days
a week, free of charge and feature handcrafted glassware, wheel thrown
pottery and handmade jewellery to name but a few.
Adjacent
to Cockington Court is a Norman church, today dedicated to St. George
and St. Mary. Once the centre of the village before an extensive
reshuffle by the Mallock family who became lords of the grounds
in 1654, the church is now primarily used for weddings and christenings
although it still holds services every Sunday. Should you be interested
in getting married in this stunning church, rich in architectural
delights dating from 1086 to the present day, you would only have
to wait four years!
A
traditional Devonshire cream tea is the perfect ending to an enthralling
visit to this historic village. Situated about a quarter of a mile
from The Forge, towards the seafront is Lanscombe House. There is
outdoor seating in the beautiful enclosed garden which is teeming
with wildlife, or alternatively you can relax indoors.
All
cakes and scones are baked on the premises, as are the hams and
other meats on offer. Only local produce is used here, including
jam from Tiverton and clotted cream from Torrington. Open from Easter
to the end of October from 10-5pm, Lanscombe House is well worth
a visit.
Cockington
Country Park is managed by the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust.
This Charity is dedicated to protecting wildlife, green areas and
the coastline of Torbay. You can contact them on (01803) 606035 or
on www.countryside-trust.org.uk
