13 June 2016 - Tavistock Club Site, Moorshop, near Tavistock, Devon

After such a day, it was no surprise that we should sleep in. We had decided that the second onslaught of Cromwell should occur after at least one day’s respite. Instead we set off late in the morning, the weather not particularly inspirational, and headed for Buckland Abbey halfway between Tavistock and Plymouth.

The Abbey had fallen foul as most during the dissolution and eventually found its way into the hands of Sir Francis Drake who on his return from his circumnavigation of the globe, his ship full of riches stolen from Spaniard ships, rich beyond his expectations, even after he had handed a portion across to his investor, Elizabeth I. He purchased the property from the Grenvilles, the previous owners, and it stayed in the family, or the extended family, right through until it was sold in the 1930s or ‘40s to a neighbour, and then in part was handed over to the National Trust. 

There is much about Francis Drake throughout the house and the exhibitions within, as well as the three hundred years of Cistercian occupation. There is also a rather amazing bonus; a self-portrait by Rembrandt which is soon to go on tour. Back in 2010, a generous donation of five paintings was made to the National Trust, most of a nautical nature. The portrait was certainly attributed to the school of Rembrandt but it is only since the original art expert on the panel at the time decided to have another look, then recommended an in-depth investigation, that the authenticity was established. The painting that had been estimated to have a value of about £20,000 was suddenly considered to be worth $20 million!

The property is situated on the south eastern edge of the moor, high above the Tamar and Tavy valleys, a beautiful spot, requiring a most scenic route in. There are several recommended walks about the property however when we emerged once more from the interior of the buildings, the rain had set in earnest and we were pleased to seek refuge back in the car. We were glad that we had taken the opportunity to explore the amazingly massive barn, the oak ceiling beams still original from the Cistercian days, and the lovely Elizabethan garden before being driven home by the inclement English weather.

However for all that our visit had been abbreviated, the morning had been spent dealing with pressing business matters by email, and the afternoon was spent in a relaxing manner, readying ourselves for the rest of Cornwell to be explored tomorrow.