A La Ronde, Exmouth, Devon
You don’t see many 16 sided houses so this is worth a visit when you're on your large group holidays in Devon. A La Ronde, on the outskirts of Exmouth, is owned by the National Trust and it has to be one of the quirkiest places you'll ever see. The house was built in the 18th century, inspired by a tour of Europe by two eccentric sisters. Inside it’s magical; peek out of the diamond shaped windows, study the hand crafted pictures made from sand, seaweed and card, walls decorated with feathers, and the incredible Shell Gallery. It’s all rather Alice in Wonderland, with an almost surreal Octagon Room that has eight doors leading off it; even in the Music Room there are oddities such as an emu egg and Induit models on display, and the curiosity cabinet has all sorts of delights.
The garden is lovely, with views across the Exe estuary and garden games to play in the finer months. Walk through the meadow, have a picnic in the orchard or cake in the tea shop, see the water tower and laundry, and visit the little Point In View Chapel that also served as a girls’ school and is the final resting place of the ladies who built A La Ronde.
Opening times vary throughout the year so it’s best to check the website.
T: 01395 265514 All information correct at the time of writing