8th December, 2021

Cotehele’s Christmas garland

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Step back in time to see Cotehele’s famous Christmas garland and discover how this festive tradition came to be. Get there by train on the scenic Tamar Valley line and enjoy a crisp riverside walk to Cotehele and around the stunning estate.

The garland can be viewed at Cotehele each day until the 2nd of January, from 10:30am until 4pm (closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day).  Admission to the National Trust property is £13 for adults, £6.50 for children and free to National Trust members.

Step back in time

As next year marks the 75th year that Cotehele was given to the National Trust, the estate will be kicking off the celebrations with something a little different this Christmas. Diving deeper into the archives, the design of this year’s garland will pay homage to how it would have looked in the 1980s.

How to get there

Take the train from Plymouth and cross the impressive 120-feet-high viaduct into Calstock. The scenic train journey takes just 30 minutes and leaves Plymouth every 2 hours. Look up train times and buy tickets on the GWR website or GWR app.

Riverside Walk

From Calstock station, it’s a beautiful riverside walk (1.2 miles) to the National Trusts Cotehele property.

Places to eat and drink

Feeling peckish? Calstock and Cotehele have some great options. If you fancy some lunch while you’re exploring Cotehele, The Barn restaurant next to the main house is a great option. Alternatively, The Tamar Inn, situated by the river in Calstock serve great food and drinks.

How much does the train journey cost?

The Off-Peak Day Return fare from Plymouth to Calstock is £6.50 for adults, with 5–15 year-olds half price, and under 5’s go free. Buy your ticket on the Great Western Railway website or app, or at Plymouth station before boarding the train.

PS Here’s a sneak peek of the garland…

@great.scenic.railways Walk from Calstock station to Cotehele & see the famous Christmas garland! #cotehele #calstock #plymouth #nationaltrust #christmas #garland #cornwall ♬ Christmas Bells – StudioKolomna

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