The 1200-acre
Dartington Hall estate is located in the heart of South
Devon. This encompasses one of the finest gardens created in
modern times with many beautiful woodland and riverside
walks. At the centre is a 14th century medieval courtyard
which houses the Great Hall.
Originally
built for John Holand, half brother to King Richard II, in
1388 Dartington Hall has been called the most spectacular
mansion in Devon and is the largest medieval house in the
West of England. From beamed ceilings to an etching of a
15th century Spanish Galleon carved onto a wall, history can
be discovered all around the courtyard and gardens. The
Estate, with its collection of 20th century buildings has
been architecturally famous since the 1930's when it was
purchased and renovated by Leonard and Dorothy Elmhirst.
Their vision laid the foundations - and created the spirit
upon which present day Dartington is based.
