If you enjoy National Trust places that are grand, quirky, and a little surprising, Knightshayes Court is just the spot. This Gothic Revival gem feels impressive but still manages to be welcoming.
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Just outside Tiverton, Knightshayes Devon is a place I’ve visited a few times – sometimes as a stop on the way to or from Cornwall, and again during a recent stay in Mid Devon. You might plan for a quick visit, but it’s easy to lose track of time and spend hours here.
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A Bit of Background
Created for the Amory family, the property has a fascinating story that mixes big Victorian ambition with a few unfinished dreams. You can sense history as you move around, especially when you notice details that feel bold, theatrical, and slightly different from your typical country estate.
The house is full of rich colours, intricate design, and rooms that feel wonderfully dramatic without being stuffy. I loved how personal it all feels – less museum, more glimpse into how someone actually lived. There’s plenty to look at.
Now cared for as part of Knightshayes National Trust, it’s brilliantly balanced between preservation and making visitors feel genuinely welcome rather than tiptoeing about.
Exploring The Inside
William Burges designed the house’s interior in the 1860s, while John Norton handled the exterior. Burges gave the inside its bold and theatrical style. If his name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s well known in Cardiff for his work for the Marquess of Bute.
Burges used rich, jewel-toned colours like deep reds, blues, and golds, along with decorated ceilings, painted walls, stencilling, and mythical designs. If you’ve visited the Arab Room or Banqueting Hall at Cardiff Castle, you’ll recognise the same immersive medieval fantasy style here. I didn’t realise he was the architect until I visited, but it made sense as soon as I saw it.
Knightshayes is actually one of the best places outside Wales to see Burges’ interior ideas in action. Unlike Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch, Burges didn’t have complete control at Knightshayes, and he died before everything was finished.
Knightshayes Gardens
Step outside and everything opens up. The gardens roll out in layers, with planting that changes with the seasons and plenty of benches for a sit-down-and-stare moment. The views across the surrounding countryside are a genuine highlight and worth taking the time to see.
The formal gardens are great for a relaxed walk. Wide paths, gentle slopes, and many benches make it easy to take your time.
Knightshayes Walks
One of the nicest surprises about visiting Knightshayes is just how walkable it is. You can keep things gentle and potter about the gardens, or stretch it out into a longer wander without ever feeling like you’ve accidentally signed up for a hardcore hike.
Beyond the main gardens, there are quieter routes that take you into woodland and open estate land. These feel more rural and peaceful, especially on weekdays. Expect birdsong, big trees and that lovely sense of being properly out in the countryside without straying too far from civilisation. It can take from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on how far you roam.
- Paths are mostly well-maintained, but can get muddy after rain.
- Sensible shoes are a good idea, especially for woodland routes.
- Some areas are sloped rather than flat, so pace yourself.
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Knightshayes Cafe
The café at Knightshayes is exactly what you want after a wander around the gardens: relaxed, welcoming, and well set up for a proper sit-down. Expect classic National Trust fare, including hot drinks, cakes, light lunches, and seasonal specials. And, of course, the scone of the month!
You can sit inside or outside. The café is popular, especially on weekends, so try visiting a bit earlier or later if you want a quieter spot. There’s a dog-friendly area in winter, but in summer, dogs are only allowed outside.
Take a Picnic
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.
Gift Shop and Book Shop
The Knightshayes gift shop is a delightful little treasure trove tucked away in the courtyard. Stocked with locally made crafts, National Trust goodies, garden-inspired gifts, and tasty treats, it’s ideal for finding something special – whether it’s a jar of local chutney, a nature-themed tea towel, or a cosy scarf. There are also seasonal items available throughout the year, so it’s always worth browsing before you head home.
There’s also the Second-Hand Book Shop, which offers a range of pre-loved books, from history and gardening to fiction and children’s titles.
Not visiting soon, did you know you can shop online? Check out the National Trust Shop.
Knightshayes Events
Watch the calendar for a variety of seasonal events throughout the year. Kids can enjoy an Easter egg hunt, summer activities, meeting Santa at Christmas, and Halloween trails. There are also interesting exhibitions.
- Knightshayes Halloween usually offers themed garden trails, autumn activities, and family-friendly spooky fun instead of anything too scary.
- Knightshayes Christmas features festive decorations in the house, seasonal trails, and a cosy feel in the café and shop. These events fill up fast, so check ahead if you want to visit during the holidays.
Can Dogs Go to Knightshayes?
Dogs are welcome at Knightshayes, and you’ll find water bowls in the courtyard.
Dogs must stay on short leads in the Formal and Woodland Gardens, Parkland, and Impey Walk. They’re also allowed in the reception, plant centre, shop, café, and second-hand bookshop, so you can enjoy a coffee or browse with your dog.
Dogs aren’t allowed inside the house, the kitchen garden, or on the Douglas Fir Walk at any time.
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Knightshayes National Trust Opening Times
Opening times vary by season, with longer hours in spring and summer and shorter hours in winter. The house, gardens and facilities may also have different opening times on the same day. It’s always best to check the official National Trust listing before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Knightshayes National Trust Address
Knightshayes Court, Bolham, near Tiverton, Devon, EX16 7RQ
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Knightshayes National Trust Directions
So, Knightshayes is easy to reach by car and is well signposted when you get close.
- From Exeter, take the M5 northbound and exit at Junction 27.
- Follow signs for Tiverton, then brown tourist signs for Knightshayes.
- On-site parking is available for visitors.
- Public transport is limited, so driving is usually the easiest way to visit.
Knightshayes Prices
National Trust Members get free entry. Non-members pay standard admission, which ranges from £18.70 for adults in winter to £20.80 in summer. Family tickets are available too.
Are you unsure if membership is right for you? I’ve done the research on National Trust vs. English Heritage for you.
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, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Jersey, Guernsey and Australia. Membership includes:
- Unlimited free entry to all of the properties.
- An essential companion card that allows you to bring up to two carers if you have a disability. These can be different people; the card is in your name.
- Free parking is available in most car parks. Some National Trust car parks are situated in other natural areas, such as on beaches and along countryside walks. You can save money just by using their car parks.
- You’ll be sent an annual handbook full of information about the properties. However, the website is easy to navigate, and you can find 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 cafe.
2026 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)
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Is it worth visiting?
Definitely. Whether you stop by during a trip around Devon or make Knightshayes your main destination, it’s the perfect mix of history, scenery, and relaxed exploring. It feels like a real day out, not just another quick stop.
If you like places that feel lived-in, a bit theatrical, and have plenty of space, Knightshayes is worth adding to your list. It’s the kind of spot you’ll recommend to friends and start planning to visit again.
My National Trust Reviews
If you enjoyed reading about Newark Park, why not check out some of my other National Trust adventures? From grand historic houses to hidden gardens and dog-friendly walks, I’ve explored plenty of incredible spots across the UK. Whether you’re planning your next day out or just love a good heritage wander, there’s loads more inspiration waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Knightshayes?
Knightshayes is owned and cared for by the National Trust. The property was gifted to the Trust in the 20th century, ensuring the house, gardens and surrounding land are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
What is the history of Knightshayes Court?
Knightshayes Court was built in the mid-19th century as a Victorian country house. It was designed during a period when Gothic Revival architecture was hugely fashionable, combining medieval inspiration with modern Victorian comforts. Over time, the estate evolved into a showcase of bold interior design, innovative gardens and ambitious landscaping.
Who lived in Knightshayes?
The house was originally built as a family home for the Amory family, who were wealthy industrialists with strong connections to the area. They lived at Knightshayes for several generations, shaping both the interiors and the surrounding gardens before the estate eventually passed into National Trust care.
Are dogs permitted in the Knightshayes Gardens?
Yes – dogs are welcome in the gardens, provided they are kept on a short lead at all times. Dogs are not allowed inside the house, but the outdoor spaces are a lovely spot for a relaxed stroll with your four-legged companion.
How much does it cost to enter Knightshayes?
Entry to Knightshayes is ticketed, with different prices for adults, children and families. National Trust Members get free entry. Prices can vary seasonally and depending on which areas are open, so it’s always best to check the official National Trust listing before visiting.
Is Knightshayes free for National Trust Members?
Yes. National Trust Members can visit Knightshayes free of charge, although booking a timed entry slot may be required at busier times of year.
Directions to Knightshayes from Exeter
Knightshayes is around a 45-minute drive from Exeter. Take the M5 northbound, exit at Junction 27, then follow signs for Tiverton. From there, local brown signs will guide you directly to Knightshayes. There is on-site parking for visitors.
What plants are in the Knightshayes gardens?
The gardens are known for their variety and structure, with features including:
- Formal terraces and flower borders
- Exotic and ornamental shrubs
- Mature trees and woodland planting
- Seasonal displays that change throughout the year
You’ll find everything from colourful perennials to unusual species introduced during Victorian plant-collecting expeditions.
What plants are native to Devon?
Devon’s native plants include:
- Bluebells
- Foxgloves
- Primroses
- Hawthorn
- Oak and ash trees
- Ferns and wild grasses
These thrive in the county’s mild climate and are commonly seen in woodland, hedgerows and countryside landscapes.
What plants grow well in Devon?
Thanks to its relatively mild temperatures and good rainfall, Devon is ideal for:
- Camellias
- Rhododendrons
- Hydrangeas
- Magnolias
- Fuchsias
- Lavender in sunnier, well-drained spots
This climate is one reason Devon gardens often feel lush, colourful, and productive for much of the year.
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