Hartland Abbey
Devon, England
Photo: Greenshed, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Gallery: Michael Garlick, CC BY-SA 2.0 · Michael Garlick, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Key facts
- Operator
- Stucley family
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Membership
- Historic Houses members go in free - what it costs per visit
- Nearest station
- Barnstaple, 20.1 miles (straight-line)
- Stays
- Overnight accommodation available
- Note
- Former monastery converted into a country house after the Dissolution, home of the Stucley family.
Pinpoint
Hartland, Stoke, Bideford EX39 6DT
Telephone 01237 441234
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Hartland Abbey is a former monastery converted into a country house after the Dissolution and is home to the Stucley family. Reviewers describe a wooded valley setting with paths running inland to a productive walled garden and down to the coast, plus a house with paintings, furniture and a small museum. Parking, staff and the tea rooms are all mentioned positively, and several visitors found it uncrowded even on busy days.
At a glance
Worth the trip
The walk down to the sea - reviewers describe it as the highlight, taking you from the gardens out to the coast.
Before you go
The coastal path is a proper walk rather than a stroll, so allow extra time and wear suitable footwear if you plan to reach the shore.
What visitors say
Hartland Abbey reviews · 4.4 / 5 across 669 Google reviews
Reviewers describe a varied site set in a peaceful valley, with several gardens each of a different character, a productive walled garden, a woodland garden and the Ladies Walk. The walk down to the coast at Blackpool Mill is repeatedly recommended, and the cottage and other spots are mentioned as film and television locations.
Visitors describe the house as full of interesting paintings, furniture and history, with a small museum, shop and a well-stocked tea room. Staff are praised as friendly, parking is described as easy, and one family found it uncrowded even at Easter; dogs are welcome outdoors.
One reviewer flags that the abbey and gardens close in winter and on certain days during the season, so it is worth checking before travelling.
“Fantastic day out for all the family. Fab cafe great cake. Lovely walk to the Beach (cliff)”- Olivia Fennell - Smith, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “To the west of the main car park, there is a lovely walk to the coast at Blackpool Mill, mostly along private paths, with some great views.” - Chris Bull
- Facilities
- “There is a lot of variety here, including the historic house, exhibition area, tea rooms, and a number of gardens, each with its own character.” - Chris Bull
Common questions about Hartland Abbey
Where is Hartland Abbey?
Hartland Abbey is in Devon, England, at Hartland, Stoke, Bideford EX39 6DT.
Do you need a ticket to visit Hartland Abbey?
Yes - Hartland Abbey is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Stucley family. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
Can you stay overnight at Hartland Abbey?
Yes - Hartland Abbey offers bookable accommodation, so you can spend the night in the stately home itself or within its grounds. See the Stately Homes You Can Sleep In guide for the full list and how each stay works.
Is Hartland Abbey dog-friendly?
Visitor reviews suggest dogs are welcome at Hartland Abbey - one reviewer noted: “…initely the Malory Towers details. Very dog friendly (though he couldn't go inside of course)”. Policies can vary between parts of a site and change over time, so confirm with the operator before visiting with a dog.
What is the highlight of visiting Hartland Abbey?
The walk down to the sea - reviewers describe it as the highlight, taking you from the gardens out to the coast.
