Torpoint, very recently in the 18th century, became a town. Previous to that, the original settlement was in the Cornish village of Antony. Reginald Pole Carew, in 1774, designed the layout of Torpoint. Members of the Carew Poles still reside in their ancestral property known as the Antony House.
To reach Torpoint you have to get on board the Torpoint Ferry. Here in this part of the world you get to see a chain ferry. A chain ferry is an interesting vessel. Fixed chains lying across the bed of the river are pulled to propel the ferry from one side of the river to another. The chain ferry service was introduced to Torpoint in 1832. It takes about 7-8 minutes on the chain ferry to reach Torpoint from Plymouth. Torpoint, like Saltash, is also known as the Gateway of Cornwall.
When you are in Torpoint, there are a few things you should not miss out. Let's look into Torpoint's interesting history and exciting waterside.
St John's Lake is tidal by nature, is an inlet of the river Hamaoze. Over 16,000 birds migrate from different areas to St John's Lake during winter time. St John's Lake is a must-watch for bird lovers and birdwatchers. The lakeside is a perfect place to cool off.
Anthony House overlooks the River Lynher, this captivating structure with a silvery-Grey Pentenwan stone facade, was built for Sir William Carew. The construction of this 18th century manor was completed in 1724. Since then, the property remained with the Carew family. Later, in 1961, Sir John Carew Pole decided to give it to the National Trust. Situated in between Torpoint and Antony village, this enchanting building is now owned by the National Trust. According to the agreement, the members of the Carew Pole family still reside in Antony House.
Designed by William White in the later 19th century, St. Maryfield church is a pleasing treat for your visual senses. The church also known as the church of St. Philip and St. James stands close to the Antony House. Renowned and distinguished historian Michael Swift rated St. Maryfield church as ‘one of the most important buildings in Cornwall’.
Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park is set on 865 acres, on the Rama Peninsula in Southeast Cornwall, this magnificent historic structure was the former home of the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe. The historic house of the Edgcumbes was built in 1500. The house had to be restored after the structure got hit in World War II. A pleasant garden with flowers and fruits surrounds the stunning house.
Now we all think about living like a royal, don't we? Well here's your chance - Edgcumbe House and Country Park can be booked for stays! Get ready to live life king-size.
Torpoint Marina's Ballast Pound is a 200-year-old ancient monument that was used as a shield during World War II. This old war surviving structure has been reconstructed and converted into a yachting harbour. The tidal harbour is managed by a local committee that promotes yachting and rowing competitions. Adjacent to Ballast Pound, is the Mosquito Sailing Club of Torpoint. The club encourages visitors to try their hand at yachting and other water sports activities.
When in Torpoint, is impossible to miss the amazing culinary scene that the town boasts of. Nearly every corner of the town, you are likely to be greeted by many fish and seafood restaurants, bistros and brasseries, fine dining, gastro pubs, and café bars. Most of them serve fresh and delicious Cornish food but it’s not confined to just that. You can easily find great tasting cuisines from around the world.
It doesn’t matter if you’re driving to Torpoint to spend a day or planning a longer stay, the town is well worth a visit. And, if you are looking for a place to stay in this area, you have plenty of options, with a great choice of holiday cottages available.
Every part of Cornwall is beautiful and Torpoint is no exception. Torpoint clings on to its Cornish identity of being 'naturally beautiful' and historically intriguing. By the riverside, this peaceful town of Torpoint is an amazing destination for a relaxed leisurely holiday.