St. Mellion, Saltash, PL12 6QD
Tel: (01579) 350044
Email: enquiry@pentillie.co.uk
Web: www.pentillie.co.uk
Large estate on the banks of the Tamar river
Pentillie Castle and Estate's extraordinary and private location overlooking the River Tamar sets it apart from other wedding and exclusive hire venues. An elegant 17th century Cornish castle, it retains the warmth of a distinguished large country house while offering the perfect backdrop for any special occasion.
Pentillie's intriguing history began in 1698 when Sir James Tillie (1645-1713), a flamboyant businessman, built a grand house on the bank of the River Tamar for Sir John Coryton and erected a statue of himself outside.
When James Tillie died in 1713, he left the Pentillie estate to his nephew, James Woolley. On his death the estate was passed to Woolley's daughter Mary Jemima, who went on to marry Peter Coryton, the new heir of Newton Ferrers, thereby re-uniting the two estates. Pentillie then became the main seat of the Coryton Family in Cornwall.
18th century architect William Wilkins, renowned for his Gothic flair, transformed Pentillie into a castle in 1809. By 1968, dated amenities and inheritance taxes led to the demolition of three wings.
Pentillie's gardens and woodlands have hardly changed since the plans Repton worked from in 1810, although a stylish 'American Garden' was added in 1813 by the famous draughtsman and designer Lewis Kennedy.
Repton's legacy is not only a range of beautiful gardens, he also incorporated wonderful walks through deciduous wooded valleys down to the River Tamar. He and Kennedy changed little, merely choosing to enhance the spectacular landscape, and take advantage of the panoramic views.
Pentillie remained in the ownership of the Coryton Family throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. During the Second World War the south wing of Pentillie Castle was requisitioned, and used as maternity ward for the local population. By the 1960's the house was in a poor state of repair, and the decision was taken to demolish most of the 1810 construction. The subsequently remodelled Pentillie Castle was declared a listed building in 1968.
Today the estate is managed by the latest generation of the Coryton Family who are keen to preserve the magic of Pentillie for centuries to come. The house is now being restored to its rightful glory, soon there will be nine luxury en-suite bedrooms to enjoy - eight upstairs with great views and one downstairs, suitable for guests with limited mobility. It will be available for exclusive hire, corporate meetings and conferences and relaxing holidays.
Air Chief Marshal Sir William Alec Coryton KCB, KBE, MVO, DFC, RAF (1895-1981) was born at Pentillie.
The festival of speed held at the end of August is a chance to celebrate all that is good about fine cars and motorsport, set within the grand surroundings of Pentillie. Centred on a competition hillclimb being run in association with the Plymouth Motor Club, cars will race from the private quay on the banks of the River Tamar, via twisting hairpin bends and exhilarating straights, passing within yards of the majestic Castle.
Three miles north of Saltash sign-posted from the A388.
Opening TimesVarious days throughout the year Admission Charged |
Callington Cornish Maize Maze Cotehele House River Tamar Saltash The Tamar Valley