Cadhay House
Cadhay is a beautiful and historic Tudor manor house located at Ottery St Mary in the heart of rural East Devon, ten miles east of Exeter and six miles from the sea at Sidmouth. Cadhay offers a blend of history and charm within the peace and tranquility of the Devon countryside. Listed by Country Life Magazine as one of the top manor houses in England,
Visitors are welcome to wander around the gardens and mediaeval fish ponds.
Steeped in history.
Cadhay was built by John Haydon in 1550 on the site of an earlier house. His nephew Robert built the Long Gallery, a feature of late 16th century housebuilding, closing in the south side of the house to form a courtyard that became known as the Court of the Sovereigns because of the four statues of Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary and Elizabeth that stand over the doors.Robert was married to Joan, the daughter of Sir Amias Poulett, Privy Councillor, former ambassador to France and Keeper of Mary Queen of Scots during her imprisonment. Her cousin, William Paulet, was also on the Privy Council for all for Tudor monarchs which might explain why the courtyard is adorned with statues of each of them.
Cadhay is located just outside of Ottery St Mary, an attractive parish town on the River Otter some ten miles from Exeter and six miles from the sea at Sidmouth. Mentioned in Domesday in 1086, the town is the birthplace of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. It is probably most famous today for its annual Tar Barrels, an event that takes place each year on Guy Fawkes Night when the tar barrels are set alight and carried through the streets of the town by local residents. Apart from this extraordinary happening, Ottery is a peaceful and beautiful town that has all the amenities, including excellent independent shops for local food as well as one of the best wine merchants in the South West.
Visitors say…
“We all had such a fantastic time exploring the house and beautiful gardens. The bedrooms are beautiful and so comfortable. We hope to be back to continue this love affair.”
“A truly beautiful place and accommodation. Didn’t want to return home. Cadhay is a real gem and we felt very fortunate to have found it.”
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