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Clovelly Court Gardens

Introduction

The garden is a classic example of the Victorian kitchen garden tradition.

The garden is a classic example of the Victorian kitchen garden tradition. It is currently undergoing a major renovation of the fine range of lean-to greenhouses and the re-introduction of tender fruit species. The walled garden is also now used extensively for market gardening. Old roses and shrubs are displayed in the garden behind the house. The terraces also enjoy views over Bideford Bay.

The gardens are regularly open for visitors.

Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts
History

Early history

Clovelly Court was the seat of the Carys family for over 600 years. It was then sold to locally born Lincoln's Inn lawyer Zachary Hamlyn.

18th Century

Following a fire in 1789, an elegant Gothic Georgian wing was built in the same year. This wing was badly burnt in 1943, leaving the most ancient, albeit plain remains.

In 1796 Rev John Swete wrote ‘the grounds had a fine natural fall to the sea and were charmingly diversified, with hill and vale, open glades and ancient woods.'

19th Century

The parkland extends over 10 hectares, with fine views over Bideford Bay. The Hobby Drive was constructed by Hamlyn in 1829, offering an alternate carriageway approach through oak woodlands to the picturesque village of Clovelly.

A diarist in 1823 noted that the ‘romantic' grounds had a summer-house called ‘The Cabin' which was ‘too grand to attempt description'. He also noted that Lucombe had supplied mountain ashes with yellow and orange berries, as well as others with white, pale and dark red berries. These trees were a feature of the Hobby Drive. White (1850) noted that it was a ‘large and handsome seat . . .the views from the house are extremely grand.'

Features & Designations

Designations

  • The National Heritage List for England: Listed Building

  • Reference: House, stables, gateway, lodges, game larder, walls enclosing kitchen gardens with gazebo and cottage, Hobby Lodge
  • Grade: II

  • Nature Reserve

Plant Environment

  • Environment
  • Walled Garden

Features

  • Wall
  • Description: Stone kitchen garden wall
  • Greenhouse
  • Description: Five greenhouses
  • Herbaceous Border
  • Terrace
  • Lawn
  • Walk
  • Description: Long walk.
Key Information

Type

Garden

Purpose

Ornamental

Plant Environment

Environment

Principal Building

Domestic / Residential

Survival

Extant

Hectares

10

Open to the public

Yes

Civil Parish

Clovelly

References

References