Overbecks celebrated the Summer Solstice by opening at sunrise for the first time ever.

The National Trust property, renowned for its seven-acre, terraced gardens, carved into the cliff at the entrance to Salcombe Harbour, normally opens at 11am. However, this year, for one day only, opening time was brought forward by nearly six-and-a-half-hours, so that visitors could capture the rising the sun on the longest day of the year.

Membership and visitor manager, Graham Phillips said: “During the year many members ask why we do not stay open longer in the summer evenings so that they can watch the sunset whilst sipping a glass of wine on our restaurant terrace.

“The simple answer is because we face east, and the sun sets in the west!

“However, this gave us the idea to open for an early breakfast today so that the rising sun could be enjoyed.”?Over 40 visitors took advantage of seeing the sunrise over the estuary, whilst enjoying coffee and pastries in the delightful surroundings of the Mediterranean and sub-tropical gardens.

Head gardener, Chris Groves, said: “The garden team including several volunteers work hard throughout the year to make this special place really attractive and I am so pleased they looked stunning on this special day.”

Food and Beverage Manager, Netty Scarramanga, was overjoyed with the response adding: “Our restaurant is always a popular destination, but this morning was something else, with coffee, croissants, and pain au chocolat flying off the shelves.

“It was well worth the early start to see so many enjoying such a beautiful morning.”

Overbecks is open everyday from February to October, between 11am and 5pm. In addition to the Gardens and Restaurant, there is an eclectic museum in The Edwardian House and a National Trust shop, all on the doorstep of the South West Coast Path and picturesque Bolberry Down.