An exotic and fascinating hidden treasure perched high on the cliffs above Salcombe. This Edwardian seaside garden is spectacular.
The garden at Overbeck’s is a history lesson in itself, with its plants and trees collected from around the world. The favourable microclimate has enabled the development of a specialised collection of tender Mediterranean and Australasian plants.
Explore the amazing subtropical gardens, meander through the woodland, or relax beneath the palms and soak up the spectacular panorama across miles of beautiful coastline and estuary.
The convalescent story of Overbeck’s
Built in 1913, the Edwardian house replaced an earlier property. George Vereker bought the house in 1911, demolished it and named it ‘Sharpitor’. Sadly their second son, Robert Vereker, aged just 21, was killed at Mons, Belgium on the 25 August, just 22 days into the war.
In memory of their son Robert, Mr and Mrs Vereker offered their new home to the Red Cross Society to be used, rent free during war time, as a Voluntary Aid Hospital for the treatment of convalescent British and Allied Troops. Sharpitor V.A. Hospital was mostly run by volunteers. Fifteen of the 1,020 soldiers that stayed at Overbeck’s ended up marrying local girls.
The Overbeck era
In 1928 the seaside home was bought by successful inventor Otto Overbeck. You can see his amazing invention: the ‘rejuvenator’; hear the polyphon, a giant Victorian music box; and be intrigued by the eclectic collections of natural and maritime history.
In honour of Otto Overbeck, the house is now known as Overbeck’s. Otto was an accomplished inventor, linguist, and art collector and it is thanks to him that the National Trust has this special place for everyone to enjoy.
The Billiards Room Café offers a range of light lunches, sandwiches, delicious cakes, teas and Salcombe ice-cream.