Spend A Day In Cockington

Cockington is a traditional village, filled with thatched cottages, a large manor house and wide open spaces. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, whether you need a little retail therapy at independent craft shops, a Devon Cream Tea or a relaxing walk around the lakes.

FOR FAMILIES

Cockington is great for families, and offers a range of things to do to spend quality time together.

THINGS TO DO

Hidden behind the manor house is Ark Park, a sensory play park open all year round. A  popular attraction featuring a seesaw, turning stone, sound boxes, singing stone, water feature with seesaw pump and fountain, as well as slides and ramps for endless fun!

The large field in front of Cockington Court is perfect for spending time together. Ball games are permitted, so why not bring a ball, rounder set or cricket set and make some memories as a family.

There are numerous leisurely strolls around the village and the country park. You can discover the old stocks, an abandoned water mill, the Alms Houses for the former estate, medieval carp lakes, water meadows, an ancient gamekeeper’s cottage nestling in the woods or take a horse and carriage ride around the stunning grounds of Cockington Court.

PLACES TO EAT

Situated within Cockington's historic and magnificent Grade II listed manor house, the Seven Dials Café is a traditional tea room caters for all, indoors or on the outdoor terrace, with vegetarian and vegan options included.

Or why not bring a picnic? Head to Occombe Farm Shop, which is just 7 minutes by car or 30 mins walk from Cockington, for some delicious local produce and then relax amongst the natural splendour of Cockington Country Park. Within its 450 acres are well-ordered garden landscapes, open parkland, rural countryside, substantial woodland and three pretty ornamental lakes.

LOOK OUT FOR

Water mill: Tucked away in the village is a historic water mill. Can you find it?

Craft studios: watch the talented crafts people at work as they blow glass, work with metal and make chocolate!

The forge: This pretty thatched building predominantly dates from the late 18th/19th century but incorporates the remains of a structure dating back to the 14th century. It is, according to locals, one of the most photographed properties in Britain!

FOR ADULTS

The chocolate box village of Cockington attracts all kinds of people. Step into the past and discover thatched cottages, a historic manor house and stunning woodlands.

THINGS TO DO

Cockington Court is home to Craft Studios, where you can watch highly-skilled artists and artisans, all producing gorgeous objects, paintings and crafts that are unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. Take a wander around the shops in the village and pick up a few gifts or mementoes of your visit. Why not walk or cycle from Torquay seafront and make your way to Cockington taking in the wonderful scenery on the way. Discover the three hidden lakes within the woodlands, and while away the day whilst watching the wildlife.

PLACES TO EAT

In the heart of the village, you’ll find Weavers Cottage, an authentic 18th century with beautiful sun kissed walled courtyard garden. Enjoy a light lunch, speciality cream tea, ice cream sundae or homemade cake, or just indulge in a gourmet coffee.

LOOK OUT FOR

Rose garden: At the back of the manor house, you’ll find a beautiful walled garden filled with fragrant roses. There are plenty of benches here, so why not find a sunny spot and watch the world go by.

The manor house: Cockington Court is hard to miss! Built in the 1500s, it was originally a manor house for the wealthy Cary family. Later, the house was owned by the Mallocks, who were personal friends of Agatha Christie, and she spent many days at Cockington Court. In 1932, Torbay Council bought the estate and transformed it into a country park and craft studios.

Cockington church: Keep your eyes peeled for this Church, found next to the manor house. It is one of the oldest in UK, dating back to 1069 and was actually mentioned in the Domesday Book. The pulpit is thought to be made in the 16^th century from wood taken from a Spanish ship during the Armada.

DOG FRIENDLY

THINGS TO DO

The 450 acre country park is more than enough to keep your dog entertained! It a beautiful mix of picturesque well-ordered garden landscapes, open parkland, rural countryside and substantial woodland. There are four way-marked accessible walking routes, and you can find walking routes here.

PLACES TO EAT

For a dog-friendly, traditional pub with a large beer garden, head to The Drum Inn. The world famous architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens, designed this pub as the focal point of the village. Oozing rural charm and rustic character, the picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for savouring the hearty, seasonal pub food and the carefully nurtured cask ales and fine wines.

LOOK OUT FOR

Agatha Christie plaque: Cockington was a favourite of Agatha’s, and she would ride her horse along the narrow country lanes from her own home at Ashfield to Cockington to see her friends. Just outside the rose garden, there is a plaque which tells you more about the connection between Cockignton and the Queen of Crime.

Wildlife: From squirrels scurrying up trees to ducklings waddling in the lakes, Cockington is full of life! What can you spot on your wanders?

Thatched cottages: throughout the village and country park, you’ll discover quaint thatched cottages.