Killerton House

Killerton is a grand 18th-century Georgian country house and a vast 6,400-acre estate located in Broadclyst, Exeter, Devon. Given to the National Trust in 1944 by Sir Richard Acland due to his political beliefs, it is now a popular destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and families alike.

What to See and Do
Explore the House: Walk through the ground floor, staged to look like a busy family home from the 1920s and 30s.
Fashion Exhibition: Visit the first floor to see the National Trust’s largest fashion collection, featuring over 20,000 historic items.
Wander the Gardens: Discover a world-class collection of rhododendrons, magnolias, and rare “champion” trees.
Quirky Structures: Hunt for the Bear’s Hut (a thatched summerhouse with a deer-bone floor), the Ice House, and the Ornamental Dairy.
Outdoor Adventure: Hike to the top of an extinct volcano (Killerton Clump) or explore the remains of an Iron Age hill fort.
Family Fun: Kids can enjoy two dedicated play areas, a second-hand bookshop, and seasonal activities like Easter egg hunts.

Who Should Go and When
Families & Dog Owners: With miles of parkland and dedicated play areas, it is ideal for active families. Dogs are welcome on short leads in the parkland and the Stables Coffee Shop, though they are restricted from the house and formal garden areas.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March/April): For spectacular displays of magnolias, daffodils, and cyclamen.
Summer: For open-air theatre performances and lush wildflower meadows.
Autumn: To see the veteran trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold.

What Makes it Unique
Political History: It was gifted to the nation not because of debt, but because of the owner’s radical political beliefs in public ownership.
The Fashion Collection: Unlike most stately homes that focus on furniture, Killerton’s upper floor is a dedicated museum for historic dress.
Unique Chapel: The Grade I-listed chapel has an unusual layout where pews face each other rather than the altar, intended to make the congregation feel like equals.

Booking & Visitor Tips
No Booking Needed: You generally do not need to book your visit in advance; you can simply turn up.
Parking Offer: If you arrive car-free (via bike or public transport), you can choose a free book from the second-hand bookshop.
Best Value: Entry is free for National Trust members. For non-members, car park charges apply (£5.20 for a full day), and house/garden tickets are approximately £18.00–£19.80 for adults.
Accessibility: A Tramper (all-terrain mobility scooter) is available for hire, but it is best to book this in advance by calling 01392 881345.