Radford

Radford is a manor estate in Plymouth with roots going back to the thirteenth century. The original mansion, which had about 50 rooms and stood near Hooe Lake, was the largest residence in its district until demolition in 1937, though various estate buildings and park features survive today.

The estate began in the thirteenth century under the le Abbe family, who later adopted the name Redford after the local red-colored soil. Ownership passed to the Harris family, who retained it for centuries until the mansion's decline and removal in the twentieth century.

The Harris family's long ownership shaped local life for centuries, with the estate serving as a gathering place for prominent figures of its era. Today, the remaining park features reflect this heritage of hospitality and social importance.

The site is now accessible as Radford Park, offering accessible walking paths through the grounds. Several historic buildings and landscape features remain on the property, making it easy to explore on foot at your own pace.

A small castle folly was built in the early nineteenth century using materials salvaged from the original mansion. This unusual structure stands near Radford Lake and remains one of the most curious features of the estate today.

Location: City of Plymouth

GPS coordinates: 50.35230,-4.10180

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:08