InfoBritain

 

Overbeck's, Devon

Overbeck's was built in 1913. An eccentric research chemist named Otto Overbeck retired here in 1928. The house now contains his collections, of insects, machines designed to boost health, music making gadgets and paintings. The insect collection was put together in Victorian times, and illustrates a typical preoccupation of the period. "Beetling" was very popular, and Charles Darwin was a keen collector during his student days. Collections like those at Overbeck's are an interesting glimpse into the nineteenth century preoccuptations.

The garden was founded in 1901. Its exuberant planting from around the world reflects increasing ease of global travel. The garden's sheltered position high above Salcombe in south Devon produces an unusually warm microclimate. This allowed an early nineteenth century taste in exotic plants to be taken to a unique level. There are Chusan palm trees, banana trees, olive groves, and fuchias from South America.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garden at Overbeck's

This lovely house and garden was used as a rehabilitation hospital for wounded soldiers returning from the First World War. Overbeck's also served as quarters for American troops preparing for the D-Day invasion. A large relief model of the Salcombe area, used to help in planning the invasion, remains hanging on a wall in the house.

There is a cafe at Overbeck's with a big window overlooking Salcombe and the Kingsbridge Estuary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View from Overbeck's garden

 

Directions: Overbeck's is near Salcombe on the south coast of Devon. From Salcombe follow brown signs. Be prepared for narrow roads and steep gradients. Click here for an interactive map centred on Overbeck's.

Address: Overbeck's, Sharpitar, Salcombe, Devon TQ8 8LW

Opening Times: Opening hours for National Trust properties can be complex. Please use contact details below.

 

Access: The grounds are partly accessible. This is a clifftop garden, with many slopes and some steps. In the house only the first floor is accessible. The shop and cafe are both accessible via an alternative entrance.

 

 

 

Contact:

telephone: 01548 842893

e-mail: overbecks@nationaltrust.org.uk

web site: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-overbecks

 Share