National Trust - Knightshayes

About

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. John and Joyce, the last members of the family to live at Knightshayes, were dedicated amateur gardeners, who were responsible for the creation of the unique Garden in the Wood, and were awarded RHS Victoria Medals for their contributions to horticulture.

The Gothic Revival house is a rare example of the genius of William Burges, whose opulent designs have inspired extremes of opinion, even amongst the family who commissioned them. Started in 1869, the house was home to three generations of the Heathcoat Amory family, and underwent many changes over the next century as the family adapted it to suit their tastes, before being handed to the National Trust in 1972.

Alongside this, the restored walled garden merges full productivity with aesthetic appeal and is an excellent example of a restored Victorian kitchen garden. Providing the Stables café with fresh fruit and vegetables on a daily basis, it’s considered to be an exemplar of its kind within the National Trust. The old Stable block is also home to Visitor Reception, and a large plant centre and shop.

Beyond the house and gardens, 300 acres of parkland and woodland await. Home to Exmoor horn sheep, wild red deer, and an adventure playground, it’s the perfect place to explore and run off some energy. Dogs are welcome on leads throughout the parkland, and off lead in the woodland and any enclosed field without livestock.