Lanhydrock House

website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

One of the most fascinating late 19th-century houses in England. Full of period atmosphere and the trappings of a high Victorian country house, the house also retains the atmosphere of the family home of the Agar-Robartes. Although the gatehouse and north wing (with magnificent 32m-long gallery with plaster ceiling) survive from the 17th century, the rest of the house was rebuilt following a disastrous fire in 1881 with the latest in contemporary living, including central heating. Highlights include the great kitchen, an evocative nursery wing, and 17th century long gallery with plaster ceiling depicting biblical scenes.

2005 saw a whole new look for the kitchen, dairy, larders and sculleries, following extensive research. The garden features a stunning collection of magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias, and offers fine colours right through into autumn. All this is set in a glorious estate of 364ha (900 acres) of woods and parkland running down to the Fowey River. There is an extensive network of footpaths.