Killerton House, Exeter

Killerton House is one of the largest estates operated by the National Trust. Recently in the news for being the test site for a 'community farm' being run by the trust amid the 6,400 acres of land surrounding the house. The gardens and house are open to the public, all maintained in the stunning original Georgian style.The house itself was built in 1778 by John Johnson and the first floor is filled with Killerton House's costume collection, containing over 7000 items. This collection dates back to the eighteenth century and there are even replica costumes for visitors to try on.

The gardens are gorgeous throughout the year, with hillside lawns offering superb views of the surrounding areas. The John Veitch garden is magnificent with magnolias, rhododendrons and some rare trees. There are walks throughout the grounds and the rustically designed and aptly named Bear's Hut summerhouse.