Cockington Court announces closures amid management shake-up
The gallery and visitor welcome point will close from January as Torbay Council looks to secure a new operator for the historic estate.
Torbay Council has announced changes to the management of Cockington Court, which will see its gallery and visitor welcome point close from January while a new operator is sought for the historic estate.
The council confirmed that the changes will take effect on January 1, 2027, as part of efforts to secure the long-term future of the popular visitor attraction.
The gallery in the Manor House and the Visitor Welcome Point will close under the interim arrangements, although no date has been given for when they might reopen.
The Seven Dials Café and craft studios will continue to operate as usual, while public access to the surrounding parkland and gardens will remain unaffected.
The Manor House will also continue to host weddings and other ceremonies.
The council has confirmed that there will be no on-site staff presence at the Court from January 1, with management instead being provided remotely.
The announcement follows a review of the site's future management, first outlined by the council in September, aimed at establishing Cockington Court as a sustainable, year-round destination.
Torbay Council has said it intends to retain ownership of the estate while seeking an external operator with the experience and resources to oversee its future management.
The appointment of a new operator will follow a staged selection process, with interested parties initially invited to submit an expression of interest by January 4, 2027.
Those shortlisted will then be invited to submit an informal tender outlining their vision and proposals for the site, before being asked to provide a detailed business case and final offer by February 12, 2027.
This will need to include financial forecasts, evidence of funding and a delivery plan.
The council will also carry out legal, financial, property and technical checks before deciding whether to proceed with any of the proposals.
A spokesperson confirmed that the council hopes a new operator will take over from April 1, 2027, subject to the successful completion of the relevant processes.
Councillor Chris Lewis, Torbay Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, added:"I would like to reassure our residents and visitors that we remain as committed as ever to securing a sustainable and positive future for Cockington Court.”
"These changes are not about withdrawing support for the site but instead working, along with tenants and key stakeholders, to put the right foundations in place so that we can ensure its future as a thriving heritage, visitor and business destination in Torbay.”
"Everything will be open as usual over the Christmas period including the café, craft and retail units.”
“Whilst access the Visitor Welcome Point and gallery in the Manor House will be closed from January, there will still be plenty for visitors of all ages to enjoy on the wider Cockington estate.