Caerhays Castle and Gardens

Selected Property

Caerhays Castle and Gardens Description

Caerhays is one of those historic homes that have a distinctive style, or taste if you prefer, very much their own. This often stems from long and uninterrupted ownership and from 1370 to 1840 the Caerhays Estate was owned by the Trevanion family.

By the time a purchaser was found in 1853 the property was in a sad state. However, salvation in the form of the Williams family took over and money, as well as loving care, was pumped into Caerhays in abundance.

The result now is a thorough gem of a place, a genuine family home where steady and determined management has paid off handsomely, a place that visitors fall totally in love with and return to time after time.

Caerhays is unusual in that it opens from February to June every year, then closes to concentrate on its many specific activities which includes a strong horticultural interest, holiday homes on the estate, educational visits, weddings, visits by cruise ships, lectures and business facilities

The Countryside Stewardship Scheme provides funding for many of the educational visits and it's well worth referring to their Website. for guidance. The Georgian Hall is a handsome space within the castle and very adaptable for a variety of uses. Outside coastal paths take in stunningly beautiful scenery, and many of the walks on coast and countryside are open all year round.

The Magnolia Tea Rooms refresh the inner man amidst surroundings that are both gracious and spacious, indoor or out, supplying tasty snacks, light lunches and mouth-watering cakes that are in a class of their own.

They like events at Caerhays, but they like them containable, preferably in harmony with the estate, a sense of scale and not intrusive on the enjoyment of a wider audience. Cookery Workshops, Speciality Games Cookery Demonstrations are all grist to their well managed mill.

Gardeners will rejoice in the gardens at Caerhays, not least the National Magnolia Collection. Some of the courageous plant hunters of the late 19th and early 20th centuries went to far-off places with the support of the Williams family, and today that investment, whilst possibly largely philanthropic, can be seen in the outstanding spring gardens, that take advantage of the favoured microclimate as well. The garden is designated as being of Outstanding Importance by Kew Gardens.

There are over 75 record trees at Caerhays, on the basis of height and girth. The collection of evergreen oaks is another tribute to the plant hunters, and the National Collection of magnolias draws its own audience every year.

The sporting shooting on the Estate is famous for the quality of its high flying birds and its great natural beauty. Luxurious accommodation for shooting or corporate parties is available at the 5* Gold Award house, The Vean, with fine views over the Castle from its eight en suite rooms, offering part or fully catered options.

For those seeking peace and tranquillity amidst unspoiled surroundings a reference to the Caerhays Holiday portfolio could prove rewarding.

The Castle was built by John Nash for the Trevanion family, and was complete by 1810. Yet by 1855 the roof had fallen in and it is said that geese were nesting in the drawing room. Whilst it is clear that the Williams family love their castle home, one is left with the lingering feeling that their hearts are out there amongst the natural setting of the estate and its achingly beautiful union of land and sea.

I review a considerable number of historic houses, castles and gardens in the course of my work, but it is seldom possible to speak with the same conviction and fervour as I can about Caerhays. No wonder thousands of people travel to see its wonders every year during those all too brief magic days in early spring and summer.

Opening Times - 2012

Castle

Further information including opening times and prices