Overbeck's

Overbeck's Garden is a subtropical garden terraced into the cliffs above Salcombe, where palms, bananas and rare tender plants thrive in the mild microclimate. The Edwardian villa, Sharpitor, went to the Vereker family in 1913, who lent the house to the Red Cross as a hospital in the First World War; Otto Overbeck, an inventor whose "electrical rejuvenator" paid for it, bought it in 1928 and added more exotic plants. The house is closed for essential repairs, so the visit is the garden: sea views framed by palms, a Nature Nook for children, coast path walks to Bolt Head and refreshments at the Coach House Kiosk, card only. Reviewers praise the well-tended planting and the pre-booked garden team tours. Tips from visitors: the on-site car park is small and the lanes narrow and steep, so many park at East Soar and walk the 1.2 miles; paths are steep and gravelled, with a step-free route on request. Dogs are welcome on a short lead.