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?

Visitors walking through a garden in spring

Visiting this spring 

Our gardens, parks and countryside sites are open. In England our shops are open, along with outdoor seating at cafés. In Wales some shops are open, and cafés are offering a takeaway service. Houses and other indoor areas are currently closed. The safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors from the nearby community remains our priority. We strongly advise booking your visits in advance, especially over the Easter holidays when places may be very busy. Please check the property webpage before you visit and follow government guidance on travel.

More details on what's open
Agatha Christie's books in the library at Greenway, her holiday home
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 about their time here, and watch a video for a virtual tour of the house.

Agatha's time at Greenway
Mid-19th-century child's painting of A la Ronde
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

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

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
The D'Oyly Carte family and friends enjoying 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.

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
Rebecca Finch
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
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
Garden maze at Overbeck's in Salcombe, South Devon
Overbeck's Garden   Devon

History of the garden

The garden at Overbeck's is a history lesson in itself, with its plants and trees collected from around the world.

Find out more
A historical photo showing Saltram house with coaches outside

Saltram's story 

Find out more about how Saltram developed into the place we know and love today.

Discover more in our animation