Our Top 5 National Trust Houses in Devon
With its magnificent coastlines, the wild National parks of Exmoor and Dartmoor, mile upon mile of rolling countryside and picture-perfect coastal villages, it’s not surprising that Devon is one of the UK’s top tourist destinations.
The National Trust owns and protects much of Devon’s coastline, farmland and woodland, and land in both National Parks. Founded in 1895, The National Trust exists not only to preserve our beautiful historic and natural places but to open them for everyone to enjoy.
A visit to a National Trust place or property is an enriching experience, providing plenty to discover, enjoy and remember. Step back in time and uncover the rich and fascinating history of some of Devon’s most grand and curious National Trust properties.
From round houses and grand manors to stately homes and imposing castles, delve into local history and explore some of the most interesting National Trust houses in Devon.
Greenway, Brixham
Described as the ‘loveliest place in the world’ by its former owner, the famous novelist Agatha Christie, Greenway is, indeed, one of the most beautiful National Trust houses in Devon. Filled with fascinating souvenirs from Christie’s global adventures, the house retains its 1950s style furnishings and wonderful character.
Agatha Christie spent happy summers and Christmasses relaxing at Greenway with her family and friends. The magnificent house is surrounded by walled gardens, woodland and riverside paths with views over the River Dart.
Investigate the boat house, the crime scene in Dead Man’s Folly, discover the 1790s gun battery, view Christie’s personal book collection in the library and learn more about the family and their collections.
Good to know before you go - Greenway is open daily from March to November with weekend opening in the winter months. There is a cafe and 1950s style ice-cream parlour, a shop filled with Agatha Christie mementos and a second hand bookshop. Dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens, cafe and shops.
Compton Castle, Paignton
If grand, dramatic National Trust houses in Devon are your thing, a visit to Compton Castle is a must. This fortified manor house with a formal garden has been home to the Gilbert family for over 600 years.
Explore the castle’s small but impressive garden, discover the great hall and the sub-solar and peer into the medieval kitchen and chapel.
Good to know before you go - Compton Castle is open on selected weekdays (excluding Fridays) from April to October, check the National Trust website for more information. Only assistance dogs are allowed in the castle and gardens.
A La Ronde, Exmouth
This quirky 16-sided home was built in 1796 for the intrepid travelling cousins, Jane and Mary Parminter, on their return from a grand tour of Europe. The house was inspired by the sixth-century Italian Basilica of San Vitale at Ravenna and built to remind them of their travels.
A La Ronde contains a fascinating collection of their souvenirs, including shells, paintings, statues and furniture. The ‘cabinet of curiosities’ holds a treasure trove of goodies and remains in its original position in the house.
The house is also home to some of the most unusual and creative interior design elements ever seen, all masterminded and executed by the cousins. This includes feather friezes, a shell-encrusted gallery and a staircase adorned with glass, bones, moss and pottery.
Good to know before you go - A La Ronde is open from Tuesday to Saturday from March to November to explore the house and grounds. There is a car park but no cafe or refreshments. Dogs are admitted in the ground but not in the house.
Killerton House, Broadclyst
Killerton House, a family home and great estate, was given away to the National Trust by Sir Richard Acland in 1944. He believed in a Christian-based moral society, where shared land ownership was key. It remains one of the biggest bequests the National Trust has ever received.
Sitting in over 6000 acres of farmland, parkland and orchards, Killerton House is home to the National Trust’s largest fashion collection. Head to the first floor of the house to discover over 20,000 items of clothing and accessories.
Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and historic parkland, visit the peaceful chapel and peruse the interesting collection of shops in the old stable.
Good to know before you go - Killerton House is open every day except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. There is a cafe and coffee shop, shops and parking. Dogs are allowed on leads in outside areas but not in the house.
Knightshayes, Tiverton
An impressively imposing Gothic Revival country home, Knightshayes is one of the finest National Trust houses in Devon. Designed by the architect William Burges in 1868 for Sir John Heathcoat-Amory, Burges believed ‘what looks best is best’. The Victorian Gothic style includes intricately carved stone gargoyles, turrets and gables, and a range of weird and wonderful beasts.
Explore the grand ground floor of the house with its stone carvings and the medieval Great Hall and take a peek inside the private lives of the Heathcoat-Amory family on the first floor. Outside you can discover the stables, kitchen garden, the garden in the woods and sprawling parkland.
Good to know before you go - Knightshayes is open year-round except Christmas Day and Boxing Day. There is a cafe, shops and a car park. Dogs are allowed on leads in the gardens and parkland but not in the house.
Hotel Riviera, Sidmouth
Situated at the heart of Sidmouth, Hotel Riviera provides the perfect base for exploring the unique National Trust houses in Devon.
Unwind in our elegant, individually furnished sea view rooms, enjoy an exquisite afternoon tea and refuel in our AA Rosette restaurant at the end of a busy day.
As one of the leading Sidmouth hotels, we are proud of our impeccable service and luxurious accommodation. Come and find out what makes us special, we’ll look forward to providing a warm Devonshire welcome.
