Visiting A la Ronde with family
- Published:
- 01 July 2026
A la Ronde is the perfect place for families to explore, play and let imaginations run free. From curious corners inside a 16 sided house to wide open views across the Exe, there’s something here for every kind of adventurer.
This summer, families can play all day as you explore exciting mazes inspired by Mary and Jane Parminter’s daring Grand Tour. Twist, turn and puzzle your way through playful routes around the grounds, perfect for long, sunny afternoons.
A la Ronde is no ordinary home. Built in 1796 by cousins Jane and Mary Parminter after their own Grand Tour of Europe, its 16 sides, geometric rooms and handcrafted interiors make it a treasure trove for curious young minds.
Highlights for families inside the house
The Room of Discovery
A sensory, hands‑on space inspired by the famous Shell Gallery. Created by visual artist Monica‑Shanta, it invites children to explore textures, patterns and the fragile beauty of the house in a playful way.
The Music Room
Take a seat at the baby Boudoir grand piano and play a tune.
The Parminter Collection
Spot souvenirs, shells, feathers and handcrafts gathered on the cousins’ travels.
Please note: the historic interiors are delicate, so we ask families to look closely but not touch the original decorations.
The grounds at A la Ronde are made for roaming, imagining and discovering. With sweeping views across the Exe estuary and out to sea, it’s a place where children can run free while grown‑ups soak up the scenery.
Family‑friendly things to enjoy outside
Sculpture bench trail Follow the trail of artist‑designed benches around the grounds. Each one has a story to tell and a perfect spot to perch.
Flower‑rich meadow & orchard Wander through long grasses, spot butterflies, or settle at a picnic table beneath old Devon apple, fig and medlar trees.
Wheels‑friendly access A smooth, accessible path loops around the grounds, ideal for pushchairs and little legs finding their stride.
Refreshments trailer Pick up drinks, ice creams and light bites, then relax in the orchard seating area.
Second‑hand bookshop A cosy stop for children’s reads and pre‑loved favourites for all the family.
If your family loves a longer adventure, you’re just moments from the Exe Estuary Trail, a 16‑mile, traffic‑free route linking Exmouth, Exeter and Dawlish Warren. It’s ideal for walking, scooting or cycling, with river views all the way.
There’s also a wheels‑friendly route from Exmouth to A la Ronde, making it easy for families to arrive under their own steam.
The orchard and meadow offer plenty of space for picnics.
The accessible path is suitable for buggies and pushchairs.
Toilets and baby‑changing facilities are available on site.
The house contains fragile historic interiors, so please help little ones look but not touch.
Ball games are welcome in the meadow, away from the house.
Dogs on leads are welcome in the grounds (except inside the house).