Lydford House was built around 1850 by the celebrated artist William Widgery. He was a stone mason by trade and erected the granite cross, on Brat Tor, in celebration of Queen Victoria's Jubilee. This dominates the skyline above the village of Lydford and is silhouetted by the higher tors behind. He was a talented artist and is known for his many watercolours which capture the timeless, mysterious beauty of the moor. His son, Frederick John, followed in his footsteps and pursued an artists career from the start becoming well respected for his talent, ending up as mayor of Exeter.

From early days Lydford House started to welcome travellers, we still have a guest book dating back to 1880. The 1903 tariff on the wall in the reception offers B&B accommodation for a shilling, though unfortunately inflationary pressures have increased our rates!

 

 

history