Killerton House

We recently took a trip down to the West Country, and to break up the journey to the southern tip of Cornwall we stopped off at Killerton House in Devon, close to Exeter which has been in the hands of the National Trust since 1944 when it was given to them by Sir Richard Ackland. The house itself dates back to 1779 when it was built for Sir Thomas Ackland by the acrcitect John Johnson. Ther have been several additions over the years, the latest being the entrance hall in 1924.

As you walk through the woods around the southern boundary you come to the Memorial erected to commemorate Sir Thomas Dyke Ackland in 1873 by 40 of his friends from the all party political dining club, the Grillion, which still exists today.

There are extensive grounds including both parkland and formal gardens, and the somewhat late spring this year, has given rise to better than usual displays.

This is the Bear's Hut, built by John Veitch, for Lydia Ackland as a honeymoon surprise in 1808. It was first called the Hermit's House until the 1860's when it was used to house a pet black bear brought back from a trip to Canada. The was no mention of whether the poor creature was ever allowed out.

To see pictures click here..

The National Trust site gives more information.