Description Tamar Hall: Saint Mellion

Set in fifty-five acres of rolling grounds, with woodland, landscaped gardens and views over the River Tamar, this stunning piece of history was built in 1698. Based on an even earlier fortified home, its turrets and striking architecture mean it's always been referred to as 'the castle'. With grand hallways, antique furniture and character features at every turn, this really could be your own stately home for a time. Fit for a large group or an extended family – perhaps celebrating a special occasion – it's a joy to stay here at any time of year. The two drawing rooms have open fires for winter nights, while the solar-heated pool will delight during the summer. There's a huge dining table for celebration dinners, a games room with table football and a pool table, a barbecue and fire pit in the grounds, and eleven elegant bedrooms – each with private facilities. The perfect base from which to explore the West Country, it's easy to get to Dartmoor, the Devon and Cornwall coast and an abundance of pretty villages by car, while keen walkers can hike the nearby trails along the Tamar Valley or enjoy the many walks around the estate. Follow the paths down to the picturesque bathing hut on the quay, or up to original owner Sir James Tillie's mausoleum. It's a six-minute drive to one of the area's premier golf courses and just over twenty minutes into the centre of Plymouth.

Home truths:
*You'll want a car in order to make the most of the area and there's plenty of parking here (there's an electric vehicle charge point too)
*Well-behaved dogs are welcome but only on the ground floor and in three of the bedrooms
*High chairs and baby gates are available if you're travelling with little ones
*The outdoor pool is solar heated and open during the summer months – it can be opened in winter if requested
*One bedroom and wet room are located on the ground floor for disabled access
*Long term renters are welcome