Gargoyles and gilded jelly-moulds

From the inside-out, Knightshayes is quirky nineteenth-century Victorian gothic revival house with stories and decoration to capture everyone's imagination. Step back in time on the minstrels' gallery, admire the intricate carvings and impressive ceilings.

Knightshayes Devon

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A picture of the ceiling in the library, showing a talbot dog carving on a corbel — The ceiling decoration in the library at Knightshayes

Quirks and curiosities

There's plenty to see, from looming grotesques and gargoyles to the ‘medieval’ great hall with minstrels’ gallery. Look out for the imaginative stone carvings of the seven deadly sins and aspects of medieval life, designed by the architect William Burges. The grand staircase is engraved with heraldic dogs and leads up to rooms of various styles, from Victorian gothic to Edwardian. The elaborate ceiling decorations tell of the troubled birth of Knightshayes and its restoration.

Discover the past

View of Knightshayes house at dusk from the south gardens — Knightshayes was the family home of the Heathcoat Amorys

Meet the family

Find out more about the Heathcoat Amory family, their innovate lace making factory and their lives at Knightshayes. You can also take a glimpse into the fascinating career of Joyce Wethered, last member of the family to have resided at Knightshayes and four times winner of the English Ladies Championship and the British Ladies Open Golf.