The pretty little UK village so charming visitors say it's like 'stepping back in time'
The village of Cockington is a must-visit when in the English Riviera - it is like going back in time with its thatched houses and narrow lanes.
The English Riviera, a charming holiday spot since the Victorian era, is home to one of the UK's most beautiful towns. Known for its lovely streets, breathtaking coastline and family-friendly activities, it's a hit with visitors during the summer.
This 22-mile stretch along South Devon's coast includes Torbay, often compared to the French Riviera by tourists. It offers seaside resorts, stunning views and plenty of fun for all ages. One place you can't miss while here is the quaint village of Cockington.
Cockington, with its narrow lanes and thatched houses, feels like stepping back in time. It features a water mill and a forge, making it perfect for both romantic getaways and family holidays.
This Saxon-origin village draws thousands of visitors annually. Cockington Country Park, known for its beautiful gardens and intriguing woodland, is a favourite attraction, reports the Mirror.
Within the park's 450 acres, you'll find ornamental lakes, a historic Manor House with a craft centre, studios and a church.
From 1066 until 1932, the Cockington Estate was owned by three families before becoming public property. The park was established in 1991 and has received the Keep Britain Tidy Green Flag for the past 26 years, making it one of only five parks to have this honour since the award's inception.
The village of Cockington is not just a pretty place, it's also got a link to the famous writer Agatha Christie. She used to hang out at Cockington Court, which was owned by her family's pals, the Mallocks.
When she was younger, she even acted in plays there. Cockington has two lovely tea rooms and the Drum Inn pub that's been around since 1936. It's a cosy spot that serves up tasty food every day.
The pub was designed by a big-shot architect named Sir Edwin Lutyen to be the heart of the village. Thanks to a recent fix-up, it's kept its old-school charm.
On their website, they say: "Our menus are full of hearty favourites and country pub classics, as well as our seasonal spring dishes, and we'll be ready with a well-stocked bar, including cask ales, fine wines and British gin to suit very taste - which will taste all the better when enjoyed either in our beautiful gardens or by our crackling log fires."
Last year, the Drum Inn's regular four-legged visitor, a cute pony, became the unofficial "Mayor" of Cockington because loads of people wanted it.
This little Shetland pony called Patrick loves to pop into his local for an Irish stout. His fans made an online joke petition to make him the "Mayor" of the village.
Kirk and Hannah Petrakis, who own him, even made him a fancy necklace to wear, with lights and a Purple Poppy to show he's the boss.
The miniature Shetland pony, Patrick, had a ceremony where he got his Mayor chain from local councillor Andrew Barrand. Even local MP Kevin Foster showed up to cheer.
Kirk mentioned, "We think Patrick The Pony has made history by becoming the first pony Mayor in the UK."
