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As the gardens bloom, the temperatures rise and the wildlife starts to wake up, say hello to spring with a day trip to one of the South West’s National Trust sites. Whether you’re met with balmy sunshine or April showers, step into the great outdoors and explore far and wide from your Easter holiday home.
Read our round-up of National Trust favourites and embark on a memorable day out with family and friends this spring.
Use the page links below to navigate the blog post: • National Trust days out in Cornwall • National Trust days out in Devon • National Trust days out in Somerset
© Drew (left) and Mike Dales (right) via Flickr
On the edge of the Helford River, the exotic wooded valley and sub-tropical garden of Glendurgan is one of Cornwall’s best known and highly regarded National Trust sites. Encompassing the breadth of three valleys, the gardens are populated with all manner of exotic plants and winding trails, from the sun-loving specimens on the upper banks, to sub-tropical varieties on the lower valley.
Families will have endless fun inside the cherry laurel maze, which has been a feature of the gardens for 200 years, and the Giant’s Stride rope swing. Skim stones on Durgan Beach, a sheltered pebble beach on the river bank, then relax at Glendurgan Teahouse Café. During the Easter holidays, marvel at spring flowers in the gardens and follow the Easter Adventures trail map to uncover secret treasures of the gardens, with a delicious treat to look forward to at the end.
Postcode: TR11 5JZOpening times: 10:30am - 5:30pm mid February to early NovemberFacilities: Café, toilets, baby changing facilities and parking
Explore the beautiful stetch of the South Cornwall coastline between Falmouth and Penzance from our sea-view properties in Porthleven, just a short drive from Glendurgan. Salt Spray (sleeps up to eight) is a contemporary seafront property, just a short walk from the beach and harbour.
Alternatively, Seathrift sleeps up to 11 guests and boasts sweeping sea views, a heated pool and a private balcony.
© Julian Hodgson (left) and Phil Beard (right) via Flickr
Straddling the clifftop of the Tin Coast a few short miles from Land’s End, Levant Mine and Beam Engine is part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage site and makes for a fascinating visit. The tin mine’s engine has been fully restored and runs on steam even now.
Discover the 19th century engine house, Man Engine Tunnel and the Winder House where the man cage was winched, then spot Cornish choughs on the coast path. The guided, interactive, family tours are a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of the mine and to see the engine at work.
Postcode: TR19 7SXOpening times: 10:30am - 4:30pm, Sunday - ThursdayFacilities: Accessible toilets, baby changing facilities and parking nearby at Geevor
Discover the region's tin mining heritage, hidden coves and dramatic landscape with a holiday in West Cornwall. Sleeping up to 14 guests, Ednovean House is a magnificent property in Perranuthnoe, with far-reaching views across Mount's Bay and St Michael's Mount. Just a 10-minute walk from the beach, this striking home combines breath-taking interiors with a sun-trap garden, surrounded by tropical plants.
On the opposite side of the West Penwith Peninsula, Shun Lee is nestled in St Ives Bay, with idyllic views of Godrevy Lighthouse, St Ives Harbour and the sparkling ocean. Accommodating 14 guests, this striking heritage home is ideal for immersing yourself in St Ives' thriving art and foodie scenes.
© Alan Foster (left) and Double Jeopardy (right) via Flickr
This striking stretch of beach hidden in the depths of the Lizard Peninsula is one of the most popular coves in both Cornwall and England as a whole – and for good reason. Kynance Cove's striking sands and almost ethereal waters have been widely frequented since the 19th century, and low tides allow visitors to explore its various caves and grottos.
The Lizard Point (also National Trust) is famous for being the most southerly place in Britain and is popular for wildlife-watching. Seals, dolphins, choughs and a variety of wildlife are regularly spotted here. The two places are connected by the South West Coast Path, but it's quite a challenging walk in places. Alternatively, there’s an additional National Trust car park for the Lizard Point, just a short drive from Kynance Cove.
Postcode: TR12 7PJOpening times: All dayFacilities: Café, car park and toilets
Discover the beauty of the Lizard's rugged coastline, gorgeous sandy bays and nature reserves from our fairytale cottage, Laflouder Thatch (sleeps eight). You'll fall in love with this enchanting abode, where the outdoor swimming pool can be enjoyed from April until October, with captivating sea views from the garden.
Also on the Lizard Peninsula, Compass Point is a New England style beach house with a sea-view hot tub and luxurious interiors, sleeping eight guests.
© Droo Gl (left) and WD Connolly (right) via Flickr
Located five miles north of Tintagel, Boscastle is a picturesque harbour and village comprising of old-fashioned shops and thatched cottages. Devastated by floods in the early-2000s, most of the village has since been rebuilt and now offers plenty to see and do on a day out, from museums and shops to boat trips and coastal walks.
A popular location for wildlife-spotting, head to the ancient woodland of Valency Valley and the Willapark lookout building on the clifftop with your binoculars to see wildflowers and butterflies, or sea birds including razorbills and guillemots.
Postcode: PL35 0HDOpening times: 10am - 5pmFacilities: Shops, café, toilets, baby changing facilities and car park
Escape to North Cornwall to enjoy incredible coastal scenery, an abundance of wildlife and fascinating historical sites. In Trebarwith Strand, find two beautifully furnished properties that offer the perfect base for exploring this enchanting area of the coast.
The Yellow Cottage (sleeps nine) is a wonderful home for families, with mesmerising ocean views from the cosy living room and mezzanine, just moments from the South West Coast Path. For larger groups, The Paddock (sleeps up to 14) is an impressive property, commanding sweeping views of the countryside and Atlantic coastline.
© Lindsey Renton via Flickr
Wander through ten sections of walled garden with ornamental and productive areas, as well as areas of woodland with ponds, streams and even sea views. Trengwainton Garden Café has both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for some refreshments after browsing the book shop and plants for sale.
This Easter, make your way along the trail, featuring 10 activities relating to garden creatures. Tasty treats are the reward at the end, following endless fun including ‘guess the footprints’, seed planting and ‘pop the tail on the bunny’.
Postcode: TR20 8RZOpening times: March – October (check website for specific times)Facilities: Café, toilets, gift shop, plant shop, book shop and car park
Just a 15-minute drive from Trengwainton, lies the charming fishing village of Mousehole. Built in the 1850s and transformed into a luxurious family home, Wharf House boasts enchanting views of the harbour and sea beyond and sleeps up to 10 guests.
Porth Enys House (sleeps up to 10 guests) is a striking property with far-reaching views across the water to St Michael's Mount.
© Tristan Martin (left) and Justin Wotherspoon (right) via Flickr
At the tip of the headland, Pentire Point boasts views across Padstow Bay, with a plethora of wildflowers and bird to spot. Wander along the South West Coast Path and view The Rumps, a distinctive part of the coastline which was once an Iron Age settlement. Pentireglaze Haven is a sandy cove, just a 20-minute walk from the car park, which is lovely at low tide.
The orchard provides an idyllic space for picnics, which is accessible to buggies and wheelchairs. Children can enjoy the natural play area, which features a trim trail and a nest swing. This Easter, find nature-inspired activities for the whole family as you explore the orchard trail, with a chocolate egg to enjoy at the end (dairy free options available).
Postcode: PL27 6QYOpening times: Pentire is open from dawn – dusk. Check website for café opening times.Facilities: Book shop, café, picnic area, toilets, electric vehicle charging point and main car park and cycle park at Pentireglaze
Beside Pentire Point, you'll find the buzzing coastal town of Polzeath. With a wood burner, games room and outdoor shower for sandy returns, Treasure House (sleeps up to 10) is ideal for surf breaks and boutique beach holidays.
Trelorna (sleeps 10) has a spacious garden, with a hot tub and fire pit, just a five-minute walk from the beach. Or further along the clifftop and sleeping up to 12 guests, Seagrass boasts panoramic ocean views and contemporary interiors.
Wherever you’re staying in Cornwall this Easter, you’re likely to find an Easter egg trail or themed activities to participate in at a National Trust house or garden. Try Godolphin in West Cornwall, Trelissick and Glendurgan on the south coast, Trerice on the north coast, or Lanhydrock and Cotehele if staying in mid-Cornwall or East Cornwall.
Stay in Cornwall
© BSA Folkstone (left) and Alison Day (right) via Flickr
The Knightshayes Estate features William Burges-designed Gothic architecture, a post-war garden and 19th century parkland. Finished with quirky turrets and a vibrant fruit and vegetable garden, this opulent home is the result of many layers of history.
Whether you’re spotting pond life in between the water lilies, picking rhubarb in the walled kitchen garden or getting competitive with an Easter Egg Hunt, Knightshayes is great for all generations. What’s more, you might even be lucky enough to spot Exmoor horn sheep or bats during your visit.
Postcode: EX16 7RQOpening times: House: 11am - 4pm, garden: 10am - 5pm, parkland: dawn - duskFacilities: Book shop, café, toilets, plant shop and car park
Looking to stay nearby? Surrounded by rolling green hills, our luxurious Dulverton properties are perfect for exploring Somerset and Devon's moorland, charming towns and exquisite gardens.
Stay at Nightjar (sleeps eight) or Willow's Rest (sleeps four) for a magical rural escape. Alternatively, book both properties together to accommodate a larger group.
© Derek Voller via Flickr
Perched on the cliffs above Salcombe, the former seaside home of scientist and inventor Otto Overbeck is surrounded by hidden subtropical gardens. Characterised by bright colours and exotic plants, this incredible paradise benefits from Salcombe’s warm and sheltered climate.
With elegant maple trees, cascading wisteria and Japanese bananas, this gorgeous reserve has a strong Japanese influence running throughout. Even the tearoom serves Japanese-inspired cream teas, complete with refreshing cups of matcha.
During the Easter holidays, gather the family together for a flora trail. Let your imagination run wild, as you become a plant hunter tasked to uncover eight key Japanese plants around the garden. Upon completion, expect to take home a palm seedling for a special Easter keepsake.
Postcode: TQ8 8LWOpening times: 10:30 - 4pmFacilities: Toilets, guided tours, car park, electric vehicle charging point, picnic area and refreshment kiosk
Escape to the water's edge and awake to sensational views of the Salcombe Estuary each morning at Waterside.
Sleeping up to eight guests, this delightful home combines nautical features with sleek interiors, and benefits from access to Salcombe Harbour Spa.
© Webranian (left) and Hugh Mothersole (right) via Flickr
Saltram House is surrounded by rolling hills, woodland and riverside walks. The garden is mostly 19th century, with a working 18th century orangery, where tropical planting and specimen trees provide beauty all year round.
Saltram House was home to the Parker family from 1743 and features magnificent interiors, including a country house library. The house is full of fascinating treasures to discover, and there's also a book shop, café and garden tearoom.
Postcode: PL27 1UHOpening times: House: 11am - 4:30pm, garden: 10am - 5pm, park: dawn - dusk. Check website for full details.Facilities: Café, book shop, tearoom and toilets
© Webrarian (left) and Clive Metcalfe (right) via Flickr
Completely charming, Greenway was once the holiday home of Agatha Christie. Follow in the Christie family’s footsteps and explore their fascinating collections of books, botanical china and Tunbridgeware.
If you can tear yourself away from the romantic garden, vinery and allotment, join one of the free guided walking routes - soak up the far-reaching views and country lanes before relaxing by the beach. If you can’t resist an Easter egg hunt, transform into a wildlife detective this Easter.
Postcode: TQ5 0ESOpening times: 10:30 - 5pmFacilities: Book shop, plant shop, café, gift shop, toilets, car park and cycle parking
© Marion CW (left) and Simon Mutton (right) via Flickr
Discover a historic building in a tranquil setting at Buckland Abbey in the Tavy Valley. Follow in the footsteps of over 700 years of history, from the Cistercians who built the Abbey, to seafarers Grenville and Drake who changed the shape of the house.
Filled with artefacts, the Abbey is part house and part museum, with extensive grounds including meadows, orchards and woodlands with far-reaching views of the Tavy Valley. This Easter, enjoy a carpet of bluebells and a nautical inspired Easter egg trail, with activities to complete along the way, sea monsters to take on and treasure to find.
Postcode: PL20 6EYOpening times: Abbey: 11am - 4:30pm, garden and estate: 10am - 5pmFacilities: Picnic area, adventure playground, book shop, café, plant shop, guided tours, toilets and car park
© Annette Pettifer (left) and Rex Harris (right) via Flickr
Acquired by the National Trust in 1944, this magnificent Georgian House is set in 6,400 acres of farmland, woodland, parkland and orchards. Killerton House is home to the National Trust's biggest fashion collection, featuring more than 20,000 items of clothing and accessories throughout the ages.
During the Easter holidays, make your way along the Easter trail and discover fun-filled activities for all the family. The nature-themed trail meanders through the garden and chapel grounds, with a tasty reward at the end.
Postcode: EX5 3LEOpening times: House: 11am - 4pm, garden: 10am - 5pm, parkland: dawn - duskFacilities: Book shop, café, toilets, shop, car, park, cycle parking and electric vehicle charging point
© Cyberslayer (left) and Debs Eye (right) via Flickr
Perched above the ancient woodlands of the Teign Gorge, stands this impressive 20th century castle. Explore the dramatic architecture of the castle, discover wildlife along the river and wander around the beautiful gardens.
For an Easter treat, discover 10 activities around the garden, all themed around the animals of the Teign Valley. The trail leads families through the grounds of Castle Drogo, culminating in a delicious prize when all activities have been completed.
Postcode: EX6 6PBOpening times: Castle: 10:30am - 4:30pm, gardens: 10am - 5pmFacilities: Picnic area, guided tours, toilets, coffee shop, gift shop, car park, cycle parking and electric vehicle charging point
© Roy Reed (left) and KangaRo (right) via Flickr
Lydford Gorge is the deepest river gorge in the South West, with a 30 metre height waterfall and beautiful walks through ancient woodland.
This Easter at Lydford Gorge, the question is: are you team Viking or team Anglo Saxon? Families are invited to follow the trail around the orchard and participate in a range of activities, to see which team comes out on top. Of course, there'll be a sweet treat to look forward to at the end.
Postcode: EX20 4BHOpening times: Waterfall car park: 10am - dusk, trail and tearoom: 10am - 4:30pmFacilities: Picnic area, book shop, tearoom, toilets, car park and cycle parking
Explore stunning National Trust homes and gardens from our luxury properties in Bigbury-on-Sea, Salcombe and Hope Cove.
Stay in Devon
© Welsh Harlequin via Flickr
An Elizabethan Renaissance triumph, this towering house is a sight to behold and is surrounded by picturesque gardens and parkland. Built in the 16th century, there's plenty to explore on the ground floor, and far-reaching countryside views to be discovered from the Prospect Tower.
Explore the beautiful gardens of Montachute House whilst completing Easter themed activities, making your way towards the chocolate reward at the finish line.
Postcode: TA15 6XPOpening times: House: 11am - 4:30pm, gardens and parkland: 10am - 5pmFacilities: Adventure playground, book shop, café, picnic area, toilets, car park, cycle parking and electric vehicle charging point
© Paul J (left) and Michael Cann (right) via Flickr
Glorious garden rooms, avenues and orchards await at Barrington Court, a 16th century court house. Explore the ground floor of the house, the tranquil walled garden and over 70 acres of parkland and grounds.
10 Easter themed activities will encourage families to pause and use their senses to discover different aspects of nature around the estate, while playing and moving their way along the trail.
Postcode: TA19 0NQOpening times: 10am - 5pmFacilities: Picnic area, café, shop, toilets and car park
© Malcolm Osman (left) and Paul J (right) via Flickr
Immerse yourself in the arts and crafts-style garden at this stunning Medieval manor house in the heart of Somerset. The gardens at Lytes Cary feature a collection of topiary, herbaceous borders, a croquet lawn and orchard, plus there's a natural play area and a 350-acre estate to explore.
Nature-inspired activities await this Easter, with an Easter egg trail that takes families around the scenic estate of Lytes Cary Manor.
Postcode: TA11 7HUOpening times: Manor house: 11am - 3:30pm, garden and estate: 10am - 5pmFacilities: Adventure playground, picnic area, tearoom, toilets, book shop, car park and cycle parking
Stay in Somerset
Updated: 13th February 2026
Image credits: © Main image: Adam Gibbard via Visit Cornwall | © Drew | Mike Dales | Julian Hodgson | Webranian | Hugh Mothersole | Phil Beard | Alan Foster | Double Jeopardy | Droo GI | WD Connolly | BSA Folkstone | Alison Day | Derek Voller | Webrarian | Clive Metcalfe | Marion CW | Simon Mutton | Annette Pettifer | Rex Harris | Cyberslayer | Debs Eye | Roy Reed | KangaRo | Welsh Harlequin | Paul J | Malcolm Cann | Malcolm Osman | Lindsey Renton | Tristan Martin | Justin Wotherspoon all via Flickr
Laura has lived in Cornwall most of her life and loves writing content about South West holiday destinations. When she's not in the office, she can be found walking the coast path, sunset chasing and camping with family or friends.
Set right on the water’s edge and featuring a cinema room plus three coastal inspired bedrooms, Waterside enjoys sensational views over the Salcombe Estuary. The elevated terrace and open plan living space invite sociable evenings with friends and family, while the beautiful beach at Mill Bay sits just across the water.
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Boasting its very own private coastline, Porth Enys House enjoys some of the finest views in the country. Set above Mousehole Harbour, the house is surrounded by 20 acres of flower-filled gardens and is complete with a cinema room, first floor balcony and a separate lookout sleeping two guests.
With transcendent views and a sunken cedar hot tub, this New England style beach house is anchored at the edge of the ocean. Sleeping up to eight guests, Compass Point transforms from airy summer aesthetic to cosy winter hideaway with ease. Dog-friendly and with Coverack Beach on your doorstep, it becomes the setting for seaside exploring and coast path trekking.
Loved by Women's Health and featured in The Telegraph as the ultimate party house, Shun Lee is a magnificent property with unparalleled views across St Ives Bay. Nestled within beautiful landscaped gardens and a short walk from several sandy beaches, it boasts bespoke interiors and prestigious entertaining spaces, including a private cinema. The house is a breath-taking setting for holidays and celebrations.
Enjoying endless views across Mount’s Bay and Marazion, this high-spec home is ideal for sociable Cornish escapes. A slick open plan kitchen and double-ended lounge create the perfect excuse for fine dining, while an abundance of outdoor space encourages dinner and drinks al fresco. Perranuthnoe Beach sits within a 10 minute walk.
Looking out across Polzeath Beach and Stepper Point, Seagrass is ideally located for walking and surfing holidays on the north coast. With its sun-trap balconies, sociable cinema room and stunning interior design, it’s a fantastically welcoming space for the whole family.
Set in a superb seaside location, this New England style beach house has lovely nautical interiors and a charming patio garden that’s ideal for taking in the view from the headland. A bright and airy lounge, Stephen Graver kitchen and four inviting bedrooms make it versatile for varying group sizes.
Featuring cool urban interiors and an open plan design, Treasure House is a surfside sanctuary just 30 seconds from the beach. Flooded with light in the summer months but a cosy bolthole come winter complete with a roaring fire, this coastal retreat has four large bedrooms and a picturesque private courtyard.
A countryside haven for those hoping to get back to nature, Upcott Farm is located on the edge of Exmoor National Park. Enjoy sprawling country views, beautiful interiors, elevated balconies and two luxurious hot tubs.
With a magnificent feature wood burner at its heart, this beautifully restored hayloft is bursting with all the charm of a rustic Somerset hideaway. Complete with four delightful bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, an indulgent hot tub and an elevated balcony, this is where your countryside dreams come to life.
The pinnacle of rustic luxury, Willow’s Rest sleeps up to four guests across two charming bedrooms. Perfect for couples or a small family, experience spectacular countryside views, an elevated balcony and bubbling hot tub at this enchanting retreat on the edge of Exmoor's National Park.
Frontline ocean views meet modern surf style decor in this spectacular West Cornwall home. Complete with a heated outdoor pool, pizza oven and wood burner, Seathrift is within walking distance of the foodie town of Porthleven. Soak up dramatic Cornish sunsets from the terrace after blissful afternoons exploring the coastline and harbour.
A low occupancy rate may be available for smaller groups out of season.
Sweeping coastal and countryside views surround The Paddock, which offers quiet tranquillity near the bustling town of Tintagel. Sleeping 10 - 14 guests across six bedrooms, it's an ideal base for multi-generational getaways on this dramatic stretch of Atlantic coastline. West-facing, the wraparound veranda and outdoor kitchen provide the perfect spot for al fresco dining in the warmth of the evening sun.
From your vantage point above one of Cornwall’s most-loved beaches, soak up mesmerizing ocean views. Featuring a games room and bar for indoor entertainment, plus a cedar-clad hot tub, Trelorna sleeps 10 guests.
Having started life as two fisherman’s cottages on the edge of the Porthleven, Salt Spray is now one striking ocean-view home designed by local architects at RA Design. Sleeping up to eight guests across two spacious floors, the innovative reverse design makes the most of its incredible coastal backdrop, with modern facilities and eco-friendly features peppered throughout. Sitting on the South West Coast Path, be on the beach within moments or head for the iconic Porthleven Harbour in search of fantastic restaurants, bars and delis.
Discover a thatched chocolate box cottage with sea views and a heated outdoor swimming pool. Sleeping up to eight guests on Cornwall’s south-west coast, Laflouder Thatch lends itself to family-friendly holidays and special celebrations with friends. Featuring an annexe, games room and pool house, this destination home sits a five-minute drive from Poldhu Cove and Polurrian Beach.
Built in the 1850s and located on the water’s edge, Wharf House is synonymous with Mousehole and its intriguing history. Now reimagined as a luxurious family home, you’ll find enchanting ocean views, collectivist interiors, and playful touches throughout. With four bedrooms, a hidden den, a barrel sauna, an indoor slide and twin outdoor baths, this is coastal living with character.
