Free National Trust visits this autumn
Autumn is the perfect time to get out and explore what surrounds us here in Mid Devon – take a stroll amidst an array of colours, spot local wildlife and connect with the natural world.
Within and near Mid Devon are a selection of awe-inspiring National Trust locations that you can visit for free this autumn from 18 September to 20 October with the National Trust Free Autumn Pass. This single-use pass allows free entry for two adults and up to three children, one adult and up to four children, or two adults on their own. Here are some of the wonderful places you could visit for free:
Knightshayes
Knightshayes, Bolham, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 7RQ
A great post-war garden, 19th-century parkland and grand Gothic Revival architecture by Victorian visionary William Burges. Sir John Heathcoat-Amory commissioned Burges in 1868 to create the court, and it is the only complete country house he ever designed. The house has retained its magnificence to this day, with its Victorian Gothic style carved gargoyles and fantastical beasts.
Things to see and do at Knightshayes
Garden in the Wood: A botanical wonderland with stunning architectural planting.
Ground floor of the Knightshayes House: Explore the opulence of William Burges’ Gothic Revival Design.
Kitchen Garden: A beautifully restored Victorian walled garden blending productivity with aesthetics.
Expansive parkland: Walk through the 262 acres of meticulously designed landscape, home to champion and veteran trees.
The stables: Step into the past at the 1872 Gothic Revival stables, the heart of the historic estate.
Family Activities: With over 200 acres to explore, there is plenty to do as a family at Knightshayes. From woodland walking and insect hunting around the parkland, to safari trails and picnics in the court gardens, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can even tick off some of the ’50 things to do before 11 ¾’ whilst exploring the court!
Killerton
Broadclyst, Exeter, Devon, EX5 3LE
Killerton was the home of one family, the Aclands, from late 17th century until 1944. Today, you’ll find a friendly Georgian house set in 2,600 hectares (6,400 acres) of working farmland, woods, parkland, cottages and orchards. There’s plenty of calm space in the glorious garden, beautiful year-round with rhododendrons, magnolias, champion trees and formal lawns. You can explore winding paths, climb an extinct volcano, discover and Iron Age hill fort and take in distant views towards Dartmoor.
Things to see and do at Killerton
Visit the Georgian House: Wander through the historic home of the Acland family, housing a fascinating fashion collection.
The Chapel, situated within the gardens: Visit the Grade I listed chapel, a beautiful architectural gem dating back to 1841.
The beautiful gardens and parkland: Discover a garden of historical importance, renowned for its rare shrubs and specimen trees. Or, explore the extensive historic parkland, featuring woodlands and an ancient Iron Age Hill Fort.
The Bear’s Hut: Encounter a charming thatched hut in the garden, once the residence of the family’s pet bear!
Dining: Enjoy a meal or snack at the dog-friendly Stables Coffee Shop or savour hot and cold options at Killerton Kitchen Café.
Shopping: Browse unique gifts, homeware, and plants at the original stables shop, or dive into literary treasures at the Second-hand Bookshop.
Family Activities: There is plenty for little ones to explore at Killerton – the gardens, woods and parkland offer fun and adventure for children of all ages. There is a children’s play area (for under 8s) as well as table tennis in the Old Apple Store. Discover the Bear’s Hut in the garden, let off some steam around the parkland or tick off some of your ’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’. For the courageous explorers, pick up the Volcano Explorer Challenge or try orienteering, with courses for all abilities.
Finch Foundry
Sticklepath, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 2NW
The last working water-powered forge in England – a doorway to Dartmoor’s industrial past. You could make a scenic train ride from Crediton to Okehampton and take a guided tour of the Finch Foundry to experience the sights, sounds and smells of one of the South West’s most successful edge tool industries; which at its peak produced around 400 tools a day.
Things to see and do at Finch Foundry
Finch Forge: Witness history at England’s last working water-powered forge, once operated by the enterprising Finch family in the 19th century.
Carpenter’s Workshop: Explore a workshop brimming with edge tools crafted at Finch Foundry, essential for local industries.
Charming Garden: Relax in a quaint cottage-style garden with a grassy lawn and convenient picnic tables.
Summer House: Admire the picturesque 19th-century thatched wooden Summer House, originally built for Tom Pearce and relocated to Finch Foundry in 1974.
Bookworm’s Haven: Discover a diverse range of books in the Second-hand Bookshop, covering everything from gardening and novels to history.
To claim your free pass, head to the National Trust Website: Free autumn National Trust passes | National Trust.
Please note: this National Trust autumn pass does not include parking at National Trust places, unless the price of parking is included within the standard admission price. Visitors are advised to check parking terms with individual attractions on arrival.
