emily hobhouse, 1913
Opening Times
The Story of Emily is open from 9am–4pm on Wednesdays and 9am–5pm Thursday to Sunday.
how to get here
the story of Emily, St Ive,
Liskeard, Cornwall
PL14 3LX
admission
Reserve a time slot in advance, then pay on arrival to get access to the full site, including the Rectory, Restaurant and War Rooms.
Reserve your slot
Save on entry when you bring the whole family to experience our immersive day out.
emily hobhouse (1860–1926)
As a fearless humanitarian and pacifist, Emily Hobhouse defied the British Empire to expose the horrors of the concentration camps during the Anglo-Boer War. Branded a “hysterical woman” and “traitor,” she refused to be silenced, saving thousands of Boer women and children.
She didn’t just speak out – She published damning reports, led social reforms, and single-handedly challenged an empire at war. In an era that silenced women, Emily Hobhouse roared with truth and defiance.
The Rectory
Explore the Victorian world of the Hobhouse family, set in 1875. This thoughtfully restored Grade II listed building invites you to step into Emily Hobhouse’s childhood home, where she lived from birth until the age of 34. Each room is rich in detail, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and the home that shaped Emily’s early years.
The War Rooms
We honour Emily's impact on events in the Anglo-Boer War. Step back in time to experience a typical Boer homestead. Witness the tactics used in guerrilla warfare and the terrible Scorched Earth Policy. Travel by train with Emily and enter a concentration camp as she shares what she witnessed.
Finally, reflect on her words of wisdom from the last days of her life, and join us in a fitting farewell.
emily hobhouse, 1913
The restaurant
We celebrate South African heritage recipes from the late 19th century with fresh Cornish ingredients. Taste a piece of history while enjoying the view of our Kitchen Garden.
sister estates
Our Sister Estates in the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands and South Africa are grounded in a sense of place and history; sharing our philosophy of celebrating natural beauty, farm-to-table living, and immersive guest experiences.
