This unique 16-sided house, now owned by the National Trust, was described by Lucinda Lambton as having ‘a magical strangeness that one might dream of only as a child’.

It was built for two spinster cousins, Jane and Mary Parminter, on their return from a grand tour of Europe in the late 18th century. It contains many objects and mementoes of their travels.

Outside, there’s a sense of harmony around the orchard, hay meadow and colourful borders, and views over the Exe Estuary.

The orchard is home to old Devon varieties of apple trees, along with plums and medlar trees. A part of the grounds known as the Bee Garden, not usually open, is now a space for quiet reflection. The meadow is full of butterflies and crickets. Why not bring a picnic and enjoy it in the orchard or on the ha-ha lawn?

There is a circular walk around the meadow for dogs.

Road Directions

• 2 miles north of Exmouth off A376
• Parking: free. Caravans and trailers telephone in advance. Two hard surface blue badge parking spaces
• Sat Nav: our postcode doesn’t always work on Sat Nav, please try using Summer Lane to find us.

Public Transport

• On Foot: East Devon Way alongside. South West Coast Path 2 miles
• By Train: Lympstone village 1 mile; Exmouth 2 miles
• By Bus: Exeter to Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, stops within ½ mile
• Cycling: National Cycle Network Route 2 is a route between Exeter and Exmouth, alongside the Exe Estuary. Towards the Exmouth end of the route is a turn up towards A la Ronde. At the top you will need to cross the main road at the crossing and make your way left towards Courtland Cross. Summer Lane is on the right by Haldon Motors.

Opening times

• Tuesday to Sunday, 10.30am to 5.00pm; last admission 4.00pm
• From Tuesday 26 March to Sunday 27 October 2024

Pricing Details