Coleton Fishacre was built in the 1920s by Rupert and Lady Dorothy D’Oyly Carte( so a relatively new house by the usual National Trust standards) who also developed the gardens and grounds from scratch in a valley running down to a private bathing cove. It is not possible to go down to the cove anymore but the rest is accessible to anyone who can manage the steep paths! Some amazing cacti & tropical style plants and lovely views to the sea.
Rupert was the son of Richard D’Oyly Carte, the impresario behind the operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan. He developed the business empire he inherited, including the Savoy Hotel and Claridges in London.
In contrast to the Arts and Crafts exterior of the house, the interior of the house is dramatically 20th-century Art Deco in design. The D’Oyly Cartes aspired to a minimalist design with high quality finish throughout, very appealing to today’s styles.