Okel Tor Mine

  The Detail...

Okel Tor Mine nestles into the wooded slopes of the Tamar Valley with the tidal river meandering below. The sixteen acre site is important for both its industrial archaeology and ecology - it’s a County Wildlife Site and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mine is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and these quirky cottages-for-two are both Grade II listed. In its heyday Okel Tor was a hive of industry and large quantities of tin and copper were extracted - and arsenic! Today all is peaceful. Nature has reclaimed what was once hers and amongst the trees you’ll find atmospheric ruins, including iconic engine houses and chimneys.

The Count House is the former mine captain’s office. This cosy one bedroom cottage, with its wonky walls and jaunty roof, has been sympathetically restored to create a cosy, comfortable retreat. Tastefully decorated and appointed, it reflects its 150 year old history but benefits from up to date features. There’s a large comfy sofa, a wood burning stove, a compact but fully functional kitchen area with modern appliances. The bedroom has a king size bed and an en suite shower room. In the morning you can lie in bed and take in the views across the valley. Enjoy breakfast on the decking and watch the river glide by…

The Smithy was where the blacksmith made the iron work and sharpened the miner’s tools, some of which remain as reminders of its mining heritage. The glorious virginia creeper and grape vine create a very different image of what was once a busy, industrious little building. This cottage has also been renovated to a high standard and has similar accommodation. It does however benefit from the addition of a covered veranda so you can enjoy relaxing and eating outside whatever the weather.

Both cottages are south facing. They have dining tables to seat four and the Smithy has an additional arm chair. There is a separate utility room with a washing machine for joint use. Also, a barbecue is available. Central heating and hot water are provided by a carbon neutral wood pellet boiler.

Calstock is only a ten minutes walk and boasts two dog-friendly pubs, a delightful café and an authentic gelateria! It’s a sleepy little village and rarely crowded. There’s an excellent little art gallery and an arts centre hosting live music, comedy and other entertainment.

The National Trust’s enchanting Cotehele is a pleasant walk from the mine - along wooded riverside footpaths with wonderful views up and down the valley. Venture further afield and you can enjoy the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor as well as the stunning Cornish coast.

A branch line railway station with regular services to Plymouth and buses to the nearby historic market town of Tavistock and beyond mean you can easily enjoy a car-free holiday.