Houses, Castles and Gardens of South Devon

Killerton is one of the most magnificent estates in Devon.  It was generously passed on to the National Trust by Sir Richard Acland. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Acland family as you wander through the welcoming Georgian mansion. The gardens at Killerton are renowned for their beauty, boasting vibrant herbaceous borders and pockets of wild meadow.

Castle Drogo is a country house and mixed-revivalist castle near Drewsteignton in Devon.  Constructed between 1911 and 1930, it was the last castle to be built in England. The client was Julius Drewe, the hugely successful founder of the Home and Colonial Stores. Drewe chose the site in the belief that it formed part of the lands of his supposed medieval ancestor, Drogo de Teigne.  The architect he chose to realise his dream was Edwin Lutyens, then at the height of his career. The castle is a Grade I listed building. The gardens are Grade II* listed on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.   

At Greenway you can take a glimpse into the holiday home of the famous and much-loved author Agatha Christie and her family. In the house: Agatha Christie called Greenway 'the loveliest place in the world' and treasured it as a holiday home for her and her family.  The relaxed and atmospheric house is set in the 1950s, when Agatha and her family would spend summers and Christmases here with friends, relaxing, playing games, and reading her latest mystery to their guests.  The family were great collectors, and the house is filled with archaeology, Tunbridgeware, silver, botanical china and books.  From walled gardens to riverside woodland, the gardens at Greenway are very relaxed and tranquil. The large and romantic woodland drifts down the hillside towards the sparkling Dart River. The walled gardens are home to the restored peach house and vinery, as well as an allotment cared for by local school children.  

With one of the finest gardens in the South West, Knightshayes is a masterpiece of architectural planting, home to one of the most outstanding botanical collections in the country. Amongst champion trees and rare plants, including some first introductions to this country, there are hidden glades and pathways leading to discover far-reaching views of the Exe valley. Beyond the house and gardens, 300 acres of parkland and woodland await. Home to Exmoor horn sheep and wild red deer, it’s the perfect place to discover wildlife, explore and run off some energy.