Coleton Fishacre, South Devon

Everything is illuminated for as second in the salon while a musical member of the public plays the Bluthner piano. In the house by the sea, silence never lasts.

Coleton Fishacre house has been open to the public for fifteen years, and the gardens for almost thirty, so much has changed since this article was published. However, there is little I can add to it, apart from urging you to vist, even if you have to come from Japan or Australia. Even if you don't like Gilbert and Sullivan; if you've never heard of Art Deco; if you wouldn't be seen dead gardening; if you think the National Trust is an offshoot of the National Front.

If visiting prime-estate properties bores you, there's a long woodland walk to the cliffs, with a view all the way to Start Point. You can always hail a passing boat from there, and make good your escape while your companions are still deliberating over Devon cream tea choices, or discussing the difference between Arts and Crafts and Art Deco.

Other Arts and Crafts Houses' I've blipped:
http://www.blipfoto.com/entry/3556870 Kelmscott Manor http://www.blipfoto.com/entry/4306700 The Red House