Powderham Castle

The historic family home of the Earl of Devon.

In a tranquil and beautiful setting beside the picturesque estuary of the River Exe lies the Medieval Castle of Powderham.

Visit a succession of magnificent Halls and State Rooms filled with lavish furnishings, tapestries and historic portraits of the Courtenay family, whose home the Castle has been for over 600 years. The Music Room is one of the finest rooms on display and was added to the Castle in 1794. Designed by James Wyatt, it was built for the 3rd Viscount's coming of age ball. The breathtaking Grand Staircase was once part of the Medieval Great Hall.

Construction of Powderham Castle was started around 1390 by Sir Philip Courtenay, ancestor of the present Earl of Devon. It was extensively damaged during the Civil War and considerable restoration and alteration followed during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Acres of open grounds to explore provides a great day out for all the family. Take a tractor/trailer ride up to the Secret Garden to meet the friendly Powderham pets. Children will love Courtenay Fort, the giant adventure play castle. Grab a bow and have a go at Archery (available from 26 July to 2 Sept) or enjoy a majestic Birds of Prey display (29 July to 2 Sept).

Autumn is a particularly wonderful time of year to see wildlife activity on the Estate. 600 fallow deer begin their rutting season early September and thousands of birds start to join the resident egrets and herons on the marshland for the winter.

New for 2007 is the opening of the Victorian Kitchen to the public for the first time - visualise what life would have been like 'below stairs'.Lots of events planned throughout the season too pick up a leaflet or visit Powderham Castle website.