Napoleon, gazing at Port Eliot land from the sea as he sailed into exile, said it was the most beautiful place in England. “Enfin, cec beau pays.” (As reported by Captain Maitland of HMS Bellerophon)

Whatever else Napolean may have got up to, he was certainly right about this! Port Eliot is indeed one of the most beautiful places in the country and is wonderful for both adults and children to explore. Children love to run free on the vast lawns. Others prefer the calm and dappled shade of the spring woodland gardens. Explore the treasures in the House. Gaze at masterpieces by Reynolds and Van Dyck. Decipher the Lenkiewicz Round Room riddle mural. Wander amidst the rhododendrons and camellias. Get lost in the maze. Lie beside the unspoiled estuary. Picnic wherever you like.

The House and gardens are extremely ancient and have been lived in for over 1000 years; the passage of centuries can be felt as you walk around the estate. The House was remodelled by Sir John Soane in the 18th century and sits in a romantic landscape laid out by Humphrey Repton which stretches down to a secret estuary on the river Tamar. The House and gardens have the rare distinction of both being awarded Grade 1 status.

Port Eliot is the historic seat of the Earl and Countess of St Germans. The family have lived at Port Eliot for hundreds of years, and have accumulated a magnificent collection of exquisite furniture and paintings. But the House is still very much a family home – you will be beguiled by the warm atmosphere, roaring log fires, and you might see the family dog Roo sitting on the furniture.

Performers 2009