Killerton Devon is a fascinating estate with an even more interesting history. The house had been in the family for over 400 years and was given to the National Trust because of political beliefs. The Georgian House is in 6400 acres of working farmland, woods, parkland and orchards. A calming and beautiful place to visit throughout the year. Here’s all you need to know about exploring Killerton in Devon.
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National Trust Killerton
On our annual trip to Cornwall (travelling from Cardiff), I always look for somewhere new to stop and explore. As I have a National Trust Membership, this is usually the first website I look at to see what’s on the route. Plus, I love history, stately homes and gardens. So, naturally, the Killerton Estate stood out as a must-visit.
Killerton House History
The Killerton Estate was once home to the Acland family from the late 17th Century. The Acland’s were one of Devonshire’s oldest families; significant landowners in the South West and continuously involved in politics for 400 years. Sir Richard Acland, 15th Baronet, gifted it to the National Trust in 1944.
Today, as you step inside, the ground floor is dressed as if it were the 1920s and 1930s. Wander through the entrance hall, music room, library and dining room, to name just a few. Here you can imagine what life was like for the family. I always love to imagine what it would be like to live in a house like this, but in reality, I’d probably be one of the servants.
Fashion Exhibition
On the first floor is ‘Active Minds and Busy Bodies’, a fashion exhibition. What were once bedrooms now play host to over 20,000 items. It started with the Paulise de Bush costume collection, 18th Century dresses that were saved from being thrown out of an Oxfordshire home during the Second World War. You can also see sportswear throughout the ages. Can you imagine playing tennis in a long dress with layers of petticoats and long sleeves?
The Chapel
The Grade I listed building was commissioned in 1841. Before being built, the Acland family would attend church in Broadclyst, a 45-minute walk from the estate. Unusually, the Chapel pews face each other rather than the altar, so all of the congregation can see each other.
Killerton Gardens
The garden at Killreton is famous for its rare trees and shrubs. As someone who hates tending to their very low-maintenance garden, it won’t shock you to know that I don’t know the names of plants or trees. However, I appreciate well-manicured lawns and colourful blooms.
Behind the mansion house is the Terrace Garden, which are alive with colour in the summer months. There’s also the Formal Garden with neatly cut, sloping lawns and the memorial to Sir Thomas Acland, 10th Baronet. You can even follow a winding path and through a gate into woodland. Here is the site of an extinct volcano and Iron Age Hill Fort.
The Bear’s Hut
As you go through the garden, you’ll notice a curious structure beneath the trees at the top of the lawn. It is The Bear’s Hut. Built in 1808, it was known at the time as Ladycott, a summerhouse for the family. It has a thatched roof and is constructed of timber from the estate. Each room is lined with different materials, including deerskin, pine cones and bark. It was renamed in the 1860s as it used to house a black bear called Tom.
Killerton Ice House
The Ice House was again designed in 1808. The structure was built into the back of the quarry, lined with brick and clad in earth and stone. Thirty men worked for five days to fill it with 40 tons of ice from nearby ponds and the River Culm. It was then crushed and compacted and, when required, would be broken off with a pickaxe and taken to the kitchens in zinc-lined cases. The ice was used to chill bottles and make treats like ice cream for the family.
Killerton Walks
The walks at Killerton were ideal for us, a perfect spot to stretch our legs and let the dog play outdoors before continuing our journey. There are a couple of walking trails to choose from; Acland Walk, Tree Walk, Two Chapels Walk or, like us, discover the parkland.
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Killerton Events
So many exciting events happen throughout the year. Every week the Killerton parkrun occurs here, where you can walk, jog or run the 5km route – free of charge.
On the third Saturday of the month, the tenant farms and local producers host the Killerton Farmers Market in the visitor car park. With plenty of tasters for you to sample.
There’s the Killerton Apple Festival and Killerton Cider Festival in the summer and an Autumn Pumpkin Trail during the October half term. Killerton at Christmas time, is traditionally decorated, and children can enjoy a trail around the garden and chapel grounds. You can also warm up with a luxury hot chocolate, festive treats and mince pies in the café.
Is Killerton House Dog Friendly?
Regular readers of my blog will know that I need our places to visit to be dog friendly. Our adventure dog, Ivan, travels everywhere with us. Unfortunately, dogs are not welcome in the house or gardens. However, there are plenty of opportunities for bounding, jumping, sniffing and splashing in the parkland. If you want to go inside, you will need to go with another human. You’ll have to swap over looking after the dog if you want to see it all. This shouldn’t be a problem if you are making a day of it.
Dogs must be kept on a lead between the visitor reception and the house, along the drive and marked areas. However, you can let them off the lead once in the park. Registered assistance dogs are permitted in all areas.
Indulge in some retail therapy
The National Trust Gift Shop is always worth a nose. Collections change throughout the year. However, you could get a soft woollen blanket to snuggle up under, local delicacies or treats, ceramics, things for the garden accessories, plus books, cards and souvenirs.
Killerton also has a Plant Centre, where you can bring some colour to your garden. The selection of green and flowering plants, some of which have been grown by the Killerton garden team. There are also garden sculptures and accessories that will add even more interest to your floral borders.
Killerton Kitchen Restaurant
There are two places to eat and drink at Killerton. The Stables Coffee shop is open to all visitors, serving hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and sweet treats. It is also dog friendly. Killerton Kitchen Café is inside the house and serves hot and cold food, drinks, sandwiches and light snacks.
Did you know you can take your own picnic? Bring a blanket or use one of the picnic benches in the orchard. Devon Hampers, send the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
Killerton House How To Get There
Due to its location, the easiest way to get to Killerton is by driving. The Sat Nav postcode is EX5 3LE, but it’s recommended to keep an eye out and follow the brown signs. If you get the train or bus, there will be additional travel such as taxis or a long walk.
Killerton Devon Opening Times
If you’re visiting Killerton House, it’s open daily between 11am and 4pm. The Chapel is open from 10am to 5pm daily. Killerton Gardens Opening Times are from 10am to 5pm daily.
Killerton Admission Price | Killerton Entry Fee
You can expect to pay £13 per adult, £6.50 per child and £32.50 for a family.
Is Killerton free for National Trust Members?
Yes, entry is free for National Trust Members.
Is membership right for you? If you’re unsure, I’ve done the leg work for you in National Trust Vs English Heritage.
With your National Trust Membership, you can visit over 500 houses, gardens, parks and castles in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can also use your card in 14 other countries with the International National Trusts Organisation, including Italy, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, Jersey, Guernsey and Australia. Membership includes:
- Unlimited free entry to all of the properties.
- Essential companion card where you can bring up to two carers if you have a disability. These can be different people; the card is in your name.
- Free parking at the majority of car parks. Some National Trust car parks are in other natural areas like beaches and countryside walks. You can save money just by using their car parks.
- Annually you’ll be sent a handbook full of information about the properties. However, the website is easy to navigate, finding places to visit by area or postcode.
- Regular members magazine, sent three times a year.
- Regular e-newsletters.
- Join by direct debit and get a £10 gift card to spend in the National Trust shops or café.
2025 Membership Prices
- Adult Membership (age 26 plus) = £96 a year (£8 per month)
- Joint Membership (2 adults) = £160.80 a year (£13.40 per month)
- Young Person Membership (age 18-25) = £48 a year (£4 per month)
- Junior Membership (age 6-17, under 5’s are free) = £12 a year
- Family Membership (f2 adults) = £168.60 a year (£14.05 per month)
- Family Membership (1 adult) = £103.80 a year (£8.65 per month)
- Senior Membership (1 adult) = £72 a year (£6 per month)
- Joint Senior Membership (2 adults) = £102.60 a year (£10.05 per month)
Use Top Cash Back when purchasing your membership
I’ve been a member of TopCashBack UK for several years and, to date, have earned over £1000 from it. Trust me, it’s a no-brainer, and you can make extra money by shopping online. Currently, you can get 3% back on your National Trust membership.
What National Trust properties can you see nearby?
There are lots to see in and around Exeter Devon. Marker’s is only a 6-minute drive from Killerton, Clyston Mill is only a 7-minutes, and Ashclyst Forest is only 8-minutes. Others nearby include Knightshayes and A La Ronde. There are also gentle walks through Sidmouth Countryside.
What are other visitors saying?
If you want to read Killerton reviews, head to Killerton TripAdvisor. Or see what’s on via their social media: Killerton Facebook, Killerton Twitter, Killerton Instagram.
Stay on the Killerton Estate
With National Trust Holidays, you can stay on the Killerton Estate. Longmeadow Cottage, Mattress Cottage, Forest Cottage and Broad Ley Cottage on the edge of the estate, sleeping 4-6 guests. Killerton Park Cottage is in the parklands near the visitor welcome centre. It even has a large patio area for warmer evenings.
National Trust Holiday Promo Code
Get 15% off selected cottages for bookings made and taken by 31 May 2024. Use discount code NTAF.
Places to stay in Devon
Sykes Cottages
Sykes Cottages has over 17,500-holiday cottages to rent across the UK, including in Devon and the surrounding areas. There are pet-friendly cottages, large holiday homes and even houses with hot tubs. They’ve been operating for over 30 years, so you know you’re booking is in good hands.
Best Western Hotels
There are three Best Western Hotels in Devon; Exmouth Beach, Dartmouth and the Lord Haldon Country Hotel in Exeter. Every Best Western hotel is individual and crammed full of its own personality. From big comfy beds, fresh linen sheets and free WiFi. Some of the hotels in Manchester have parking which charges a small fee. Check out their special offers.
Parkdean Resorts
I stayed at Bideford Bay when I visited Bude. There’s also Challaborough Bay near Bigbur, Ruda and Torquay. The caravan park and lodges have a children’s play park, indoor swimming pool, tranquil gardens, pub and restaurant. It is a short drive to Lostwithiel. There is some dog-friendly accommodation too.
Haven Holidays
Devon Cliffs Holiday Park is in Sandy Bay in Exmouth. It is the biggest park in the Haven family but also a peaceful paradise. You’ll be thrilled with your stay here with acres of fun for all the family and an award-winning Blue Flag beach. Both caravans and lodges are available here, with plenty of leisure facilities and an indoor pool.
Britannia Hotels
Britannia Hotels in Devon are in Torquay and Illfracombe. The hotel offers excellent value for money with spacious en-suite bedrooms, TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities. Complimentary WiFi sessions are included as well as low-cost parking. Even pets are allowed to stay for a small additional charge.
Cornwall Hideaways
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts and manor houses.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.
Last Minute Deals
You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price. When booking a hotel, utilising LastMinute enables you to secure fantastic deals on accommodations, ensuring a budget-friendly and spontaneous travel experience.
Get 50% off food
Did you know you can get 2-for-1 on meals or 50% off food with a Tastecard? There are independent and chain restaurants to choose from and various cuisines. Get a 2-month free trial here:
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