Dunsland

Enjoy the parkland

This tranquil, ancient parkland once befitted the grand house that stood in its midst. The park is home to a variety of trees, including 700 year-old sweet chestnuts and old fruit trees, such as Landkey Yellow, Listener, Johnny Voun and Devon Quarrendon.

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Discover the site of the house

Dunsland House, Tudor in origin, stood on this site for hundreds of years. It passed through seven families, before it was bought by the National Trust in 1954. Thirteen years later, in 1967, it was destroyed by fire, just before it was due to open to the public. All that remains is the old stable and coach house.

© National Trust

Spot the resident wildlife

The trees in Dunsland park support many rare lichens and provide a rich habitat for wildlife. Colourful blue bells and primroses can be seen in spring and you may hear the rustle of doormice and roe deer. Look out for dippers and sparrow hawks too.

© Dennis Harker

Enjoy a picnic

Where the house once stood is a great place for a picnic with views out towards the parkland. Its a great place to sit and relax with the sounds of birds and insects all around you. Children of all ages will love to explore the remains of Dunsland: each time you go you will see something new.

© National Trust / Liam Jefferson

Meet the new residents

In September 2010, the Holsworthy Beekeepers started a lease with us for a small paddock behind the stableblock at Dunsland House. The aim of the site is for it to be teaching apiary and the new resident bees will help bring Dunsland's orchards and flower meadows to life.

Find out more about the Holsworthy Beekeepers

© David Ashmore