Knightshayes Court is a Victorian country house near Tiverton, Devon, England, designed by William Burges for the Heathcoat-Amory family. Nikolaus Pevsner describes it as "an eloquent expression of High Victorian ideals in a country house of moderate size." The house is Grade I listed, and the gardens are Grade II* listed in the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.
The house was built between 1870 and 1872, and is a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture. Burges was a leading exponent of this style, and Knightshayes is considered to be one of his masterpieces. The house is built of red sandstone, with a variety of architectural features, including turrets, gables, and gargoyles.
The interior of the house is just as impressive as the exterior. The Great Hall is the most striking room, with its high vaulted ceiling and minstrels' gallery. The walls are decorated with murals by Burges, depicting scenes from Arthurian legend.
Other notable rooms in the house include the Drawing Room, with its beautiful tapestry and fireplace; the Dining Room, with its stained-glass windows and oak furniture; and the Billiard Room, with its original billiard table.
The gardens at Knightshayes are also worth a visit. There is a walled garden, with a variety of flowers and vegetables; a woodland garden, with a network of paths and a lake; and a parkland, with sheep and cattle grazing.
Knightshayes Court is a popular tourist destination, and is open to the public throughout the year. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and gardens, or explore at their own pace. There is also a tearoom and gift shop on site.
Address: Knightshayes Court, Bolham, Tiverton, Devon EX16 7RQ
Telephone: 0344 800 1895 9-5.30 Monday to Friday and 9-4 weekends and bank holidays.
Email: Send email
Website: Knightsahayes Court (National Trust)
Admission times: The parkland, cafe, shop and toilets are open 7 days a week. See website for opening times of the house and gardens as works are being carried out periodically.
Admission charges: Adult £12, Child £6, Family £30 (includes 2 adults and up to 3 children), 1 adult and up to 3 children £18, Group Adult £11.40. Gift aid prices are optional which are 10% higher.
Parking: Parking is free for National Trust members, for non-members it's £1 for one hour, £2 for two hours, £3 for three hours or £4 for the whole day.
Accessibility: The route through the garden is free-flow and the circular path is hard standing, however it is steep in some areas.
Refreshments: Yes, at Stables Café - open 10am to 4pm daily.
Dogs policy: Dogs are welcome out in the parkland and woodland but must be on a lead in fields with sheep. Assistance dogs are welcome in all areas.
Toilets: Yes
Shop: Yes
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