Visit to Rumleigh House (Tavistock Branch)

Rumleigh House (PL20 7HN) is a grade 2 listed property, believed to date back to the 16th century, with its current form largely developed from the mid-18th century onwards.

It boasts a rich and fascinating history being formerly home to two 18th-century Mayors of Plymouth, a Governor of Plymouth Fort, and a Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University.  The formal gardens date back to the 18th century and extensive reinstatement work has been done resulting in today’s colourful and stately garden. The whole estate is about 29 acres including the riverside fields, woodland, lime kiln and regency bathing pavilion “folly”. The formal gardens are about 6 acres of this with wonderful views towards Calstock and Cotehele. The tour will be of all the outside estate and gardens plus some history on the house, gardens and past owners. We will learn about the current owners’ extensive renovation of this important listed house, the remarkable efforts to restore the gardens to their former glory as well as the historically important past owners and their links to Plymouth dockyard.

The plan is to meet at the house at 2pm and to have a guided stroll around the grounds for about 1 to 2 hours, to be followed by tea/coffee and cake, home-baked by the owners.

Booking in advance is required and the cost of the visit will be £8 per person. Contact the Organiser (details below) for details. Non-members are welcome. The owners are donating their time and effort for free, and all the proceeds will be donated to the St Lukes Hospice Charity.

Note, numbers are limited so early booking is advised, and car sharing is recommended.