Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Dartington International Summer School
( 01803-847070;
www.dartington.org/summer-school
; Dartington Estate)
Courses at this month-long fest-
ival (starting in late July) include everything from composition and conducting an orches-
tra, to vocal techniques and perfect piano skills. Around three public concerts a day are
also held; expect early music and full-blown opera, as well as tango, junk music and tea
dances.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Sleeping
Pippin
CAMPSITE
££
( 01275-395447;
www.canopyandstars.co.uk
; Cleave Farm, near Totnes; 3/7 nights £265/605; )
It really
doesn't get much more idyllic than this: a brightly painted Romany caravan in the heart of
an orchard where birdsong is the only sound. Snuggle down beside the wood burner or
cook up a storm on the fire-pit, then soak in the al fresco hot tub, gazing up at the stars.
The welcome basket includes organic cider made from the apples around you, and break-
fast eggs come direct from the hen house. Ducks and peacocks roam the grounds. It's a
popular spot so make sure you book.
Dartington Hall
( 01803-847000;
www.dartington.org
; Dartington Estate; s £39-104, d £99-209; )
The wings of this
exquisite, ancient manor house have been carefully converted into bedrooms that range
from heritage-themed to deluxe-modern. Ask for one overlooking the grassy, cobble-
fringed courtyard and settle back for a truly tranquil night's sleep.
B&B
££
Sea Trout
( 01803-762274;
www.theseatroutinn.co.uk
; Staverton, near Totnes; d £102-109, ste £140; )
Most of the
rooms here are the epitome of carefully judged, comfortable, contemporary good taste. All
that changes dramatically in the feature room; a deliberately over-the-top rococo delight,
where ornate black-wood furniture sits alongside mock-chandeliers and a slipper bath. An
annex houses a mini-suite, while the great-value restaurant (open noon to 2pm and 6pm to
9pm daily; mains £15) regularly notches up awards.
INN
££
Royal Seven Stars
HOTEL
££
