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Tawstock Court

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Barnstaple

Tawstock Court is a Grade II listed Georgian manor near Barnstaple, North Devon. With a history dating back centuries, this elegant country estate has served as a family home, a school, and now a beautifully restored event venue, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury.

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Tawstock Court
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Landmarks
Rotary Gardens
Rotary Gardens in Barnstaple is a tranquil public space featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, seating areas, and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and reflection.
Yeo Valley Community Woodland
Yeo Valley Community Woodland, located on the outskirts of Barnstaple, is a beautifully maintained green space offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature.
Manning’s Pit
Manning’s Pit is a beautiful and cherished green space on the outskirts of Barnstaple, Devon, near the villages of Pilton and Bradiford. For generations, it has been a beloved spot for locals, offering scenic landscapes, peaceful walking routes, and a strong connection to nature.
St Peter, Barnstaple
St Peter’s Church in Tawstock, Devon, is a stunning example of 14th-century ecclesiastical architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
Tawstock Court
Tawstock Court is a Grade II listed Georgian manor near Barnstaple, North Devon. With a history dating back centuries, this elegant country estate has served as a family home, a school, and now a beautifully restored event venue, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
Queen Anne's Walk
Queen Anne’s Walk in Barnstaple is a historic building constructed in 1708 as a merchants’ exchange.
Pannier Market
At the heart of Barnstaple is the Pannier Market, one of the largest and longest-running markets in the country. Dating back to 1855, this Grade II listed Victorian market hall is a bustling hub of activity.
Barnstaple Skate Park
Skate Park and Dirt Track for BMX and Mountain bikes.
Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Located on the Strand, this museum offers fascinating exhibitions on the history, culture, and natural heritage of North Devon.
Albert Clock Tower
An iconic clock tower located in the center of Barnstaple, symbolizing the town's rich history and serving as a focal point for the community.
St Anne's Chapel
A beautifully preserved medieval chapel located in the heart of Barnstaple, offering a glimpse into the town's rich ecclesiastical history.
Rock Park
Rock Park is one of Barnstaple's largest green spaces, offering a beautiful riverside setting with plenty of opportunities for walking, picnicking, and outdoor activities.
St Mary's Church
Pilton Church is one of the oldest and most historically significant churches in Barnstaple, with origins dating back to the Saxon period.
Castle Mound
The remains of Barnstaple Castle, which date back to the Norman period, now consist of a large grass mound located near the center of the town.
Queen's Theatre
A key cultural venue in Barnstaple, the Queen’s Theatre hosts a variety of performances including plays, concerts, and comedy.
Barnstaple Long Bridge
A historic 13th-century bridge that crosses the River Taw, connecting Barnstaple to its western outskirts.

Tawstock Court

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A Historic Manor Steeped in North Devon’s Past

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of North Devon, Tawstock Court is a Grade II listed Georgian manor with a rich and fascinating history. Located just outside Barnstaple, this elegant estate has stood for centuries, evolving from a medieval stronghold into an aristocratic family home, a prestigious school, and now a stunning event venue and countryside retreat.

Surrounded by rolling parkland, ancient woodlands, and breathtaking views of the Taw Valley, Tawstock Court is a haven for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape in one of North Devon’s most historic locations.

A Manor with Centuries of History

Tawstock Court has been central to North Devon’s history for over 800 years. Originally home to the Earls of Bath, the estate later became the residence of the Bishop family, one of Devon’s most prominent noble families.

🏰 Medieval Roots & The Earls of Bath  The first recorded manor on this site dates back to the 12th century. The original house, owned by the powerful Bourchier family, was fortified, reflecting a time when North Devon’s nobility had to defend their land from rival factions.

🔥 The Fire of 1787 & The Georgian Rebuild  In the late 18th century, the medieval manor was devastated by fire, leading to its reconstruction in the elegant Georgian architectural style seen today. The house was carefully rebuilt, blending traditional period features with classical influences, making it one of North Devon’s most beautiful country estates.

🎓 Tawstock Court as a Prestigious School  In the 20th century, Tawstock Court became home to St. Michael’s School, a prestigious private boarding school that educated generations of students. For over 80 years, the estate’s classrooms echoed with the voices of pupils learning in its historic surroundings. The school closed in 2012, and the estate was lovingly restored as an event venue, retreat space, and countryside getaway.

Exploring Tawstock Court: What You Can Do

Tawstock Court is not open for general public visits, but it offers exclusive access for weddings, retreats, corporate events, and special bookings. Whether you're attending an event or staying as a guest, the estate has plenty to offer.

💍 Exclusive Wedding & Event Venue

Tawstock Court is one of North Devon’s most sought-after wedding venues, offering:

  • A grand historic setting with Georgian architecture and elegant interiors.
  • Beautifully manicured grounds, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and photography.
  • Luxury accommodation for wedding guests, combining historic charm with modern comfort.

🏡 A Tranquil Countryside Retreat

The estate provides an ideal escape from the busy modern world, making it perfect for:

  • Wellness retreats focused on relaxation, mindfulness, and yoga.
  • Corporate team-building experiences in a peaceful, inspiring environment.
  • History lovers looking for a unique stay in an aristocratic manor.

🚶‍♂️ Woodland Walks & Scenic Views

The estate is surrounded by mature parkland and ancient woodland, offering peaceful walking trails where guests can experience North Devon’s natural beauty.

  • Historic tree-lined avenues lead visitors through areas once walked by noble families.
  • The surrounding Taw Valley provides breathtaking panoramic views, ideal for photography, painting, or simply enjoying the scenery.
  • Seasonal flower displays fill the gardens with color throughout the year, from springtime blossoms to golden autumn leaves.

Wildlife at Tawstock Court

With its woodland, open meadows, and proximity to the Taw River, Tawstock Court is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Visitors exploring the estate may spot:

🦉 Barn Owls & Tawny Owls  Frequently seen hunting in the twilight hours.
🦊 Red Foxes  Occasionally glimpsed moving through the estate’s woodlands.
🦌 Roe Deer  Known to graze in the surrounding meadows, especially in the early mornings.
🦇 Bats The estate’s historic buildings provide shelter for several bat species.
🦜 Buzzards & Kestrels  Often seen soaring above the estate’s rolling hills.
🐝 Butterflies & Wildflowers  In the summer months, the gardens and meadows are teeming with butterflies, bees, and native wildflowers.

Things to Know Before Visiting

📍 Location: Near Barnstaple, North Devon
🕒 Access: Open for private events, weddings, retreats, and pre-booked visits
🎟 Entry: No general public tours, but available for venue hire and exclusive stays
🐕 Dog-Friendly: Dogs may be welcome during certain retreats or stays check in advance

A Timeless Escape in North Devon

Tawstock Court is more than just a historic manor it’s a living piece of North Devon’s aristocratic past, set against a backdrop of unspoiled countryside and rich wildlife. Whether you're attending an event, looking for a unique wedding venue, or seeking a peaceful retreat in a grand setting, Tawstock Court offers a perfect blend of history, elegance, and natural beauty.

For those lucky enough to step beyond its grand entrance, Tawstock Court remains one of North Devon’s finest hidden gems.

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Barnstaple

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