Overbeck’s Garden, Salcombe: Your Guide to South Devon’s Subtropical Paradise

Located just a couple of miles from Salcombe, on the edge of the beautiful South Devon coastline, lies the spectacular National Trust Overbeck’s Garden. Set high above the sea and surrounded by sheltered woodland, it has the perfect microclimate for rare and exotic plants you wouldn’t usually expect to see at a National Trust property near Salcombe. 

Overbeck’s Garden is just a short drive from Flear Farm Cottages and makes a brilliant day out for families, garden enthusiasts and walkers alike. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about what to discover at this special subtropical surprise.

What makes Overbeck’s Garden a subtropical paradise?

Overbeck’s location makes it one of a kind among National Trust gardens. Perched above the southern beaches of Salcombe, the garden benefits from sea air that helps keep frost at bay. Combine that with the shelter of the cliffs and surrounding woodland, and you’ve got a microclimate where Mediterranean plants flourish and vibrant blooms thrive. 

Highlights you shouldn’t miss on your visit

The gardens

Overbeck’s is set across various terraced gardens, linked by zig-zag paths along the hillside. These winding walkways take you on a botanical journey through the seasons. In spring, look out for Magnolia campbellii in full glory. Summer brings colourful blooms from Japanese wisteria, Echium pininana and vibrant palms. Autumn continues to impress with lush evergreens such as ferns and mosses — but the real showstoppers are the banana plants, which come into their own as subtropical foliage takes over.

Dramatic coastal paths

Overbeck’s is a stone’s throw from the cliffside, with uninterrupted sea views and vistas across the Salcombe estuary. You can pick up the South West Coast Path nearby and walk out towards Starehole Bay, Sharpitor and Bolt Head for spectacular sea views. 

Return via the higher path for an even more dramatic outlook, and keep an eye out for naturally weathered pinnacles of schist, a metamorphic rock characterised by thin, parallel mineral bands.

Overbeck’s House (currently closed)

Overbeck’s is also known for its Edwardian house and collections — but the National Trust advises that the house is currently closed for essential repairs, with plans to begin reopening part of it in 2026. 

SilentSpace – the Banana Garden

One of the highlights of Overbeck’s Garden is the Banana Garden, home to a dedicated SilentSpace — a contemplative spot designed for switching off and soaking up the atmosphere. It’s a sheltered, walled garden that protects tropical planting from coastal weather, allowing banana trees and seasonal exotic blooms to flourish. 

Family-friendly adventures in a “world in a garden”

The National Trust does family days out brilliantly, and Overbeck’s Garden in Salcombe is no exception. It’s a fantastic choice if you want something a little different by the sea — and it’s only around a 30-minute drive from Flear Farm Cottages.

Come rain or shine, grab your sandals or wellies, pack a picnic and head out to explore. Pick up a seasonal map at the entrance and follow the paths as they twist and turn through subtropical planting and sea views.

Its coastal location makes it a great place for wildlife spotting — you might even see a peregrine falcon. For budding mini explorers, there’s an outdoor telescope for spotting boats in the bay, plus the Nature Nook, which is packed with fascinating natural finds to spark curiosity and wonder. 

Rainy day? Don’t fear — Overbeck’s is still magical in wet weather. Pull on your wellies, grab a brolly, and enjoy the sensory side of the garden: rainfall on the canopy, fresh sea air, pearly raindrops on palms, and glistening spider webs dotted with sea dew. (The National Trust even highlights rainy-day rambles here.) 

Family points to know

• Baby changing facilities are available. 
• Some paths are steep and uneven, so bikes and pushchairs aren’t recommended. 
• Light refreshments are available at the Coach House Kiosk (card payment). 
• Bringing a picnic? There are picnic spots — and you can even borrow a basket and blanket. 
• There are a few delicate, spiky plants — so keep an eye on wandering hands.

Practical tips for planning your Overbeck’s visit

Opening times

Overbeck’s Garden opens seasonally (typically spring to autumn), and opening days/times can vary — so it’s best to check the National Trust listing before you travel. 

Parking

There’s a limited on-site car park. The National Trust advises payment via the JustPark app, using property code 80638 (free for members via the app). It’s recommended to download/set up the app before you visit, as signal can be temperamental. 

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on footpaths on a short, fixed lead, with some areas restricted (the National Trust shares a clear dog-friendly guide, plus water bowls and bins are provided). 

Getting there

• Car: From Malborough, follow the brown signs to Overbeck’s via North Sands/South Sands. From Salcombe, take Cliff Road to South Sands, then follow signs to Overbeck’s Garden. 
• Ferry: Take the ferry from central Salcombe to South Sands (seasonal), then walk around three-quarters of a mile uphill, following the brown signs. 
• On foot: From Salcombe, take Cliff Road to South Sands and follow the signs. From the South West Coast Path at Sharpitor, take the lane uphill (around half a mile). 

Ready to visit South Devon’s subtropical paradise? Book your stay at Flear Farm Cottages

Our luxury baby-friendly holiday cottages in South Devon are the ideal base for exploring beaches like Bantham and Thurlestone, and coastal towns such as Salcombe and Dartmouth, plus family-friendly days out at National Trust gems like Overbeck’s Garden. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice with the facilities at Flear Farm Cottages, including an indoor swimming pool, games/play spaces, roaming farm animals and tennis courts. With cottages sleeping from couples through to larger groups (up to 10), it’s a brilliant option for romantic breaks, family stays and multigenerational getaways.

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