Property Spotlight - Mill Cottage in Cockington

We love Torquay! It’s a true Devon town, known for its dramatic coastline, miles of sandy beaches, and great food and drink. Whilst everyone thinks of Torquay as a seaside paradise, its hidden niche as a countryside haven is often overlooked, and yet is Devon’s most photographed village! A peaceful country park, rich in history, culture and adventure, Cockington is a true Devon escape.

A complete contrast to the blue vistas of Torquay’s coastline, the green and pleasant land embraces the senses to bring a taste of the countryside to those who stumble upon it. Many people visit Devon on cottage holidays each year to explore and walk the countryside, and nowhere acts as a better ground for this than Cockington village. Whether you’re a gentle ambler or up for a countryside trek, the thousands who visit each year enjoy miles of country strolls, through the forestland and along the nature trail, or going off track and across the hillsides that scatter themselves about.

Although great for family days out, Cockington is equally perfect for romantic days out, couples can cosy up on a horse and carriage ride through the historic village, past Cockington Manor and through winding lanes. And what better way to round off a romantic date than a cream tea in the charming Weavers Cottage Tea Shoppe, a traditional countryside café serving the best of Devon’s cream teas, as well as locally-made ice cream. Don’t fancy that? Don’t worry – the historic Manor has been lovingly restored and now presents itself as a craft centre, where workshops run throughout the year, using twigs, plants and more from the surroundings to create beautiful souvenirs to treasure.

Keeping every beautiful space as picture perfect as Cockington is a team effort, and never has this been truer than from the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, whose small team of volunteers work tirelessly to maintain the sheer beauty of this landscape. Most recently, they have restored the iconic ponds which, alongside the Manor house, are stooped in rich history. It’s thought that these date back almost a thousand years and were originally built by order of the nearby Torre Abbey, another of Torquay’s iconic landmarks.

Of course, Cockington is a great place to visit for the day, and what better way to get there than by catching the Land Train from Torquay sea front?! Trawling along the coast, you’ll capture the sights and embrace the best of both worlds, on this unique way to explore South Devon. Add that to the horse and carriage rides around the country park, and that’s two enticing ways to enter and explore this classic Devon village!

Still not sure? Well – come and explore Cockington for yourself, and see what the fuss is all about! You can even stay right in the centre of the village in the charming Mill Cottage Cockington, which has been carefully preserved and restored to offer guests the true Devon experience.