Why the National Trust looks after places in Devon

Ever wanted to know the history behind the places we care for in Devon and why they're important? Have you wondered about the stories of the people behind them? If so, read on - or why not visit to find out more?

Family walking dogs — Enjoy walking your dog in the woodland

Which places are open and what you need to know before you visit

We're starting to open some gardens and parklands in England and Northern Ireland at reduced capacity, through advance bookings every week. Most places up to 8 June have now reached capacity. New tickets are released every Friday and we'll continue to add new places over the coming weeks. More than 200 coast and countryside car parks are now open. All houses remain closed for now and all places in Wales remain closed following Welsh Government advice. Read this article to find out what's open and what to expect from your visit.

How to book your visit

Agatha Christie's books in the library at Greenway, her holiday home — In the library look out for copies of Christie's books

Greenway Devon

Agatha's Greenway

Agatha Christie was known locally by her married name, Mrs Mallowan, and her time spent at her holiday home, Greenway, was all about quality time with the family, away from the public eye.

Find out more about Agatha's time at Greenway

Mid-19th-century child's painting of A la Ronde — National Trust Images / Derrick E. Witty

A la Ronde Devon

The history of A la Ronde

Find out how the construction of eccentric A la Ronde was inspired by an 18th-century tour of Europe. Learn more about the Parminter's daring tour around revolutionary Europe, from travelling through bandit filled forests to encounters with royalty including Marie Antoinette and the King of Prussia.

Discover the history of A la Ronde

A watercolour painting by an unknown artist of Arlington Court before 1845 — Step back in time and imagine the old estate

An evolving estate

The current house at Arlington was built in 1822, before this the house was in a different location and had a different layout. Historic maps and plans help to identify how the estate has evolved.

Find out more

Historic photo of Arlington showing a loggia in the mid-nineteenth century — Spot the difference compared to the present house

Bringing the past to life

Over 600 years of family history and more than 5000 collection items to care for, enough to keep anyone busy.

History of a family estate

An initial sketch of Castle Drogo by Edwin Lutyens. — This sketch was drawn in 1909 by Edwin Lutyens as an initial proposal.

Castle Drogo Devon

Why Castle Drogo is special

Find out what makes Castle Drogo such a special 20th century building.

Discover the significance of Castle Drogo

The D'Oyly Carte family at their tidal pool at Pudcombe Cove

Coleton Fishacre Devon

The people of Coleton Fishacre

Rupert D'Oyly Carte and Lady Dorothy chose the location for their country home while they were sailing. Find out about the the people who built and shaped Coleton Fishacre house and garden.

Find out more

The main staircase at Castle Drogo. — The main staircase at Castle Drogo with the painting of Julius Drewe at the top of the stairs.

Curator's choice: Five must-sees at Castle Drogo

Whether you're interested in architecture or someone who just wants to slow down, Castle Drogo has something to share with you. Curator Fridy Duterloo-Morgan shares her five must-sees when you visit.

Find out more

Finch Foundry Devon

Rebecca Finch

Rebecca Finch re-established Finch Foundry as a major player in the tool industry.

Find out about the woman behind this successful business

Killerton has delighted everyone through time

The gift of Killerton

Killerton has many captivating stories, step inside and find out about the family that lived here.

History

South terraces at Knightshayes in front of the house in June — South terrace of Knightshayes Court

Knightshayes Devon

Why Knightshayes is special

A Victorian visionary architect, great 20th century gardeners, and interiors the owners never really appreciated.

Why is Knightshayes significant?

Sunlight and trees reflecting on the river Lyd, Lydford Gorge

Lydford Gorge Devon

Why Lydford Gorge is special

Geology, human history and the natural world have all helped shape Lydford Gorge into what it is today.

Delve deeper into the gorge

Pictures and artefacts from Overbeck's history as a hospital for the war wounded — Overbeck's has a fascinating past as a Voluntary Aid Hospital

Overbeck's Devon

The convalescent story of Overbeck's

Overbeck's convalescent story is a journey into Britain's war torn past and the courageous men and women that fought to keep spirits high during World War One.

In the beginning