Welcome to Powderham Castle

Powderham Castle is located in a unique, picturesque setting just outside Exeter, beside the Exe estuary. Six hundred years of history are contained within the walls of one of England's oldest family homes. Sir Philip Courtenay began building it in 1391 and it has remained in the same family to this day, currently home to the 18th Earl & Countess of Devon.  The magical setting and convenient location makes it the perfect venue for all manner of events including wedding receptions and business functions. For locals and visitors to Devon it is a 'must see' and with its many attractions - a wonderful family day out!

Regular guided tours offer a fascinating walk through the Castle's majestic rooms, where you can admire the most amazing architecture, hear some remarkable stories and learn about the family history. Our experienced guides are able to adapt the tour according to their audience to ensure our visitors enjoy an informative yet entertaining tour.

Outside there is acres of space to discover and explore too. The Castle is set in the middle of a deerpark, which is home to around 600 fallow deer. Visitors can join a Deer Park Safari and get closer to the amazing wildlife. A short walk from the Castle you will discover the Walled Garden Play Area & Pets Corner, where you can meet our friendly Powderham pets and discover Courtenay Fort - our huge adventure play castle - always a hit with children. They will love to make their own discoveries on our NEW Nature Trail around the grounds and earn a fantastic Powderham medal to treasure, talking of which they won't want to miss out on the treasure trails - always a prize to be won!

A homemade meal, light snack or cream tea from the Courtyard Tea Room or even your own picnic in the grounds offers you the chance to relax and really savour the wonderful homely atmosphere.

Every season is special at Powderham beginning with the welcoming carpet of daffodils lining the drive in Spring making way for another burst of colour from the wisteria and roses in the summer to the crimson glow as the trees turn in the Autumn.

With incredible views, a wealth of beautiful wildlife and a range of exciting activities and shops, it's no wonder Powderham Castle is an attraction visitors come back to again and again. Don't worry if you don't have time to fit it all in as this year you can visit us again on another day for FREE. If you have purchased a full-priced day ticket simply get it validated at the Welcome Hut or Courtyard Gift Shop before you leave.

We hope you enjoy reading our website and look forward to welcoming you soon.

The Castle and grounds are open to visitors until 30 October 2011. Throughout the year we have lots of special events taking place, for more information on these please see our events pages.

Please note the Castle and grounds will be closed on Friday 21 October as we have a private function.

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