Coleton Fishacre is a country house and garden located near Kingswear in South Devon. It is known for its Art Deco-style house, landscaped gardens and coastal setting overlooking the sea. The site combines architecture, horticulture and views across the South Devon coastline, and is widely visited for its setting and design.
About Coleton Fishacre
Coleton Fishacre was built in the 1920s as a holiday home for the D’Oyly Carte family and reflects the architectural style of that period. The house is set within a sheltered valley that slopes down towards the coast, creating a microclimate that supports a wide range of plants.
The gardens are arranged in terraces and themed areas, with planting designed to provide interest throughout the year. The layout allows visitors to move gradually from the house down through the gardens towards the sea.
The property is managed by the National Trust and includes both the house interior and surrounding grounds. Its coastal position gives it a distinct character compared with inland estates.
What to See
Coleton Fishacre includes a combination of house features and landscaped gardens.
The house – Art Deco-style interior reflecting early twentieth-century design and furnishings.
Terraced gardens – Structured planting areas arranged along the valley slopes.
Coastal views – Open views towards the sea from lower sections of the garden.
Woodland areas – Sections of shaded planting and paths within the valley.
Water features – Ponds and streams integrated into the garden layout.
Practical Information
Coleton Fishacre is located near Kingswear and is accessed by road, with parking available on site. It is well signposted but reached via narrow lanes.
Admission charges apply, as the site is managed by the National Trust. Facilities include a cafe, shop and visitor services.
Paths within the gardens can be steep in places due to the sloping terrain. Visitors should allow time to explore both the house and gardens.
When to Visit
The property is open for most of the year, with seasonal variation in opening times. Spring and summer provide the most extensive garden displays and more stable weather.
Autumn offers quieter conditions and seasonal colour, while winter visits are more limited but still possible in parts of the site.
Summary
Coleton Fishacre is a coastal house and garden in South Devon, combining early twentieth-century architecture with a sheltered valley setting. Its terraced gardens and sea views make it a distinctive National Trust property and suitable for a half-day visit near Kingswear and Dartmouth.