Castle Hill Gardens

About

Situated between South Molton and Barnstaple in the village of Filleigh, Castle Hill offers visitors a great garden experience whatever the season. As you arrive your eye will be drawn to the ochre coloured house nestled under the hill on which is perched the Castle.

Castle Hill house and gardens are steeped in history and have for centuries been a home to the Fortescue family. The current custodians are the 17th generation of the family to live in the house.

The 50 acres of historic parkland set against the breath-taking 18th century Palladian house offer visitors the chance to experience some wondrous landscape in North Devon.

Discover outstanding parkland and explore winding pathways, majestic terraces and beautiful woodland.

Wander through ancient specimen trees along tranquil paths where 176 different magnolias, camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas grow in abundance together with profusions of daffodils, bluebells and carpets of Devon primroses. Meander beside tranquil waters and amongst spectacular mature planting.

 From February you will see many pink, red and white camellias along the slopes, interspersed with lofty magnolias and early rhododendrons. Winter snowdrops and hosts of daffodils are followed by carpets of primroses and bluebells under the giant beeches. From June onwards there are flowering shrubs such as philadelphus, weigelas, hoherias and hydrangeas before eucryphias and agapanthus burst into flower. Mid-June sees the Millennium Garden looking at its best, shades of blue and cream dominate the box edged borders before the lavender turns into “river” through Xa Tollemache’s cleverly designed garden. In late summer and autumn the woodland garden becomes a haven of tranquillity.  Walk amongst the glowing reds and yellows as the trees turn colour by the water, vistas and 18th century structures. The walled garden provides easy walking and a host of colour and scent with its sweet pea covered walls which is open during the week in summer.. 

 From the terraces there are outstanding parkland views  to follies, temples and statues all built by generations of the family and maintained to this day adorn the vistas. Stroll by the river to the Ugley bridge and Satyrs’ Temple then climb to the hilltop Sham Castle giving panoramic views to Exmoor, Dartmoor and beyond. A scenic descent leads to the millennium garden with its stunning lavender and soft hues.

There is restricted access for visitors in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility due to the layout of the gardens.

Youngsters and four legged friends on leads are welcome to explore the vast acreage. Younger visitors can be directed to the Tanglewood Tree for an  enjoyable climb on one of the oldest trees in the garden. An ideal location to bring the family for a picnic in the gardens where children can run free, explore and learn in a safe environment.

During the season an excellent tearoom serves light lunches, homemade cakes and temptingly delicious cream teas which can be enjoyed either sitting outside or indoors depending on the weather.

Castle Hill is a  magnificent venue for picture perfect weddings and host to a full calendar of events from Outdoor Theatre shows to garden  trails for all the family.

Groups of all sizes are welcomed and can be catered for in a dedicated part of the house by prior arrangement.

We encourage visitors to stay on the many dedicated paths and wear sensible walking shoes as the grassy slopes can be very slippery, even in dry weather.