Q1 Do the Earl and Countess of Devon live in the Castle?

Yes, it is still a family home. Lord Devon was born here and has lived here ever since. 

Q2 How many deer are there?

There are about 650 fallow deer in the park. 

Q3 Why do you close on Saturdays?

We close on Saturdays so that we can accommodate weddings. We hold a civil wedding licence and most brides and grooms prefer a Saturday for their special event. 

Q4 What happened to Timothy the Tortoise?

Timothy died in 2004 at the age of 160; he was Britain’s oldest pet. He was in the Courtenay family for 100 years, spending most of that time in the Rose Garden, where there is a memorial to him. There is a book all about his life by Rory Knight Bruce, published by Orion Books on sale in the Courtyard Gift Shop for £9.99.  

Q5 Can I bring my dog?

Sorry, we love dogs but we won’t welcome yours. The family dogs rule the roost and it is unfair to them to have others invading their territory. Also, the Castle is set in a deer park and some dogs are not very well behaved and tend to chase them. This causes a lot of distress. The only exception is guide dogs. 

Q6 Can I buy a Souvenir brochure?

Yes, they are available from the Castle or by post and are priced at £4.25.  If you would like one posted please add £1.75 for packaging & posting. Please send a cheque made payable to ‘Powderham Castle’ to The Estate Office, Powderham Castle, Kenton, Exeter, Devon. EX6 8JQ  

Q7 Can I take photographs in the Castle?

Amateur photography and filming (including camera phones) are welcome in the grounds, but not inside the Castle. 

Q8 What if it is raining? 

There is plenty to do at the Castle, whatever the weather. The Castle tour is indoors; the Secret Garden is open air, but there is a greenhouse to shelter in during showers. The Castle, Tea Rooms, Country Store and House of Marbles provide great havens from the rain, too.