Shamrock, a Tamar Barge. ©National Trust / National Historic ShipsBelow the woods that surround the medieval manor house of Cotehele, owned by The National Trust, stands one of the many small Tamar river quays. Unaltered since the last century, the stone and slate buildings form a fine setting for the restored Tamar barge Shamrock.

This 57ft ketch-rigged vessel of 1899 carried various cargoes on the river and worked as a diving tender and salvage barge before being acquired by The National Trust in 1974. She is now co-owned by the National Maritime Museum who supervised her full restoration to sea-going condition.

Though usually to be seen in her dock at Cotehele, she makes occasional voyages on the river Tamar. The adjoining Quay Museum tells Shamrock's story. It also gives an account of trade on the river and the coasts of South Devon and Cornwall, as well as of the related industries of the Tamar Valley – mining, quarrying and shipbuilding..

Find out more about Shamrock on the National Historic Ships website.

Visitor information

Tel: +44 (0)1579 350830

Open: 14 March–1 November, 11.00–17.00 every day except Friday. Closed for the rest of the year.

Admission: Admission free, donations box.