On Wednesday 16th September the
Looe Old Cornwall Society visited Boconnoc Estate, located half way between Looe and Lostwithiel. 24 members had a really fabulous day. The weather was exceptional for a change this summer and we found everything so perfect.
In fact straight away, if you want to learn more about the Estate and what happens there, the fabulous work that Mr and Mrs Fortesque have and are doing, then click on the image of the house to the left and you'll go straight through to their web site.
However that aside, here is a brief outline of our day.
We all met at 11.00, after some of us got terribly lost around the multitude of paths and roads on the estate. We were met by Andrew Foot (who had given that excellent talkt to us last summer, and following on from which the whole day trip to Boconnoc was planned). Andrew took us all into the church where he welcomed us and outlined the next few hours. He then took us through the history of our surroundings and then let us loose to wander at will around the church and outside.
Then down to the house. Apparently only 10 years ago you could stand in the main lounge and look directly up at the sky. Andrew took us from room to room and painted a vivid picture of how it was in the past. The troops didn't do any good to the house during their stay pre D-day. However since then there has been extensive restoration. The principle reception rooms and the house in general are close to being finished. The amount of work carried out by Elizabeth and Anthony Fortesque is truely remarkable. Anthony is a high quaility woodworker. The huge antique looking table and the large wood doors awaiting hanging are fine examples of his work. Although furniture is still needed in many rooms the house is now very warm and friendly and as their brochure says is "ideal for events, wedding receptions and visits by pre-booked parties". All very impressive, the more so because money has been in very short supply.
Outside with feet crunching in the sunshine on the gravel path we made our way up to the stable block where we were treated to very good quality pasties and wine. Mrs Fortesque herself joined us here and we were again given a warm welcome. Her enthusiasm and warmth clearly is behind the many successful events that are now staged at Boconnoc both in the house and in the grounds.
John Enever gave a short vote of thanks for her and Andrew's kindness.
After gathering for the obligatory photo of us all, we were then shown around a very small section of the grounds. Within the historic pictureque park lies one of the most beautiful woodland gardens noted for camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, hydrangeas and mature trees many planted in 1850. The open air (but no longer used!) swimming pool caused interest and another group photo.
Then we were left to wander at will on the lovely estate. Truely a great and memorable day out for the Looe Old Cornwall Society.
Again our sincere thanks to Mr & Mrs Fortesque and to Andrew Foot for making it all possible.