TDA and Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust (TCCT) recently invited offers from businesses interested in operating a horse drawn carriage service around the grounds and picturesque estate of Cockington in Torbay.
There was interest from several different companies to operate the service. Following the tender process, C and C Carriages have taken over the reins and since yesterday, Thursday 14th July, are operating the popular service.
There has been a long tradition associating Cockington with horse and carriages, which are well-loved by visitors and locals alike.
Steve Darling, Leader of Torbay Council said: “It is great that a new operator has been found and that the heritage that comes with seeing horse and carriages at Cockington can be restored. We wish C and C carriages every success in their new business venture.”
Set in an award-winning country park, a few miles from Torquay town centre, Cockington Court is a thriving centre of creativity and a popular visitor attraction cultivating art, culture and local talent. Cockington Court comprises of an historic manor house, craft studios, tea rooms, walled art garden, a rose garden, and contemporary art gallery.
The manor house recently underwent extensive renovation at a cost of £2.85m, part funded by the European Development Fund, Torbay Council and CABE, transforming the former aristocratic home into office space, craft studios and function rooms. The house sits within a 460 acre country park, which is managed by TCCT. TCCT also manage the extremely picturesque rose garden at the rear of the house.
Corinne and Carolyn from C and C Carriages said: “We are very excited to have been chosen as the new providers for the horse and carriage rides at Cockington. We can’t wait for everyone to meet our horses and to see our selection of carriages for all weathers and occasions. We have lots of exciting plans, so watch this space”.
As Torbay Council’s appointed operators of Cockington Court, TDA are delighted that a new operator has been found and that horse and carriage rides are back in time for the main 2022 summer season.
Marissa Wakefield, Director at Cockington Court, said: “We are delighted to have found a long-term partner in C and C Carriages and are looking forward to seeing horses and carriages full of happy visitors around the estate once again.”
Damian Offer, Chief Executive for Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust, said: “We are delighted that C&C Carriages are taking on the carriage service in Cockington and would like to wish them every success.”
C and C Carriages are operating from the stables, located at the rear of Cockington Court. To find out more information, to enquire about wedding options or to book a horse-drawn carriage ride, please contact C and C Carriages directly on: 07539930570 / 07455816868 or email [email protected] or follow on Facebook @C and C Carriage Company.
Visit the Cockington Court website and discover the many reasons to visit.