Only a mile from Torquay seafront, the Domesday Book village of Cockington has hardly changed through the centuries. Come and explore this special village, its historic manor house and the 460 acres of parkland, woodland and farmland around. It is completely free to enter and you can lose yourself here for a whole day! Open daily all year round.
Cockington's Ark Play Area
Cockington’s new Ark Play Area is open all year round and can be found at the rear of the court, behind the car park. The Ark is specifically designed to be used by disabled and able-bodied children. The play area has been a joint effort between Friends of Special Needs Children (FOSNeC) and Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust. It includes a wheelchair seesaw, a turning stone, sound boxes, a singing stone, a water feature with seesaw pump and fountain, as well as slides and ramps.
Cockington Court Craft Studio This impressive 17th century manor house overlooks the park and village and is now home to 9 craft-workers, all of whom, uniquely, can be seen demonstrating their skills as you tour the studios. The Glass-blowers, Blacksmith, Woodturner, Potter, Calligrapher and artist, Quilter, Jeweller, Aromatherapist and Ark Gallery & Framing Studio are happy to talk about their craft and to take commissions.
New for 2006 is The Court House , formerly known as Creations Café. The Trust recently took over the management of the café/restaurant and has revamped it with a fresh look and new menus. It is an ideal place for a cup of Fairtrade coffee and slice of homemade cake, or a seasonal light lunch.
The grounds around the Court are also full of interest. Behind the house are the peaceful walled Rose Garden and Organic Kitchen Garden, the latter being a treasure-trove of useful tips and ideas on wildlife-friendly gardening and successful vegetable-growing. Walks and ancient paths lead from the Court all around the estate and these are well-signposted; leaflets are also available inside the manor house.
Click to visit Cockington Craft Centre
Click here for details on public transport to Cockintgon