Located on the banks of the River Exe, Powderham Castle is one of the oldest family homes in Devon with over 600 years to discover. Its extensive Estate provides a beautiful opportunity to enjoy nature – from formal gardens to woodlands, estuary walks to panoramic views.
Exploring by Tramper
Tramper hire takes places from the Welcome Hut by the car park.
Tramper routes at Powderham enable you to enjoy the wide variety of natural attractions offered by the Estate.
One route heads west from the Castle going through woodland and providing access to the American Garden, and on up to the Belvedere Tower. (Spring/ summer only)
A second there and back route, takes the Castle driveway over the River Kenn and goes out towards the Exe Estuary with excellent views of the Deer Park and the opportunity to call in at the eating and shopping opportunities at the Farm Shop and Bistro (NB the Tramper cannot be taken into enclosed spaces so would need to be left outside and access would be on foot).
Nearest to the Castle you can take the Tramper up to the castle courtyard (although not into the castle), into the lakeside area as well as providing access to the Rose Garden (although due to steps, most of this will require sufficient mobility to leave the Tramper after entering the first part of the Garden).
The American Garden
Planted with species from around the Americas as well as other parts of the globe this secluded part of the Estate is one of the unexpected highlights. Thought to be inspired by the Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire, the leafy glade was originally planted in the 1790s.
The Belvedere Tower
The Tramper really comes into its own in provinding up the hill to one of the most famous landmarks of the Estate and surely one of the finest views in the Exeter area. Built in 1773, the hill by the tower provides breathtaking views across the Exe Estuary and towards the historic city of Exeter. The recent restoration works were recognised by a Highly Commended award in the 2019 Georgian Awards.
The Deer Park
An iconic feature of the Powderham Estate is the Deer Park, home to hundreds of fallow deer since before 1723. The deer will often come close to the tree lined track that forms one of the Tramper routes.
Thank you to Exeter Chiefs Foundation
The cost of purchasing the Tramper available for hire at Powderham Castle was partly funded by the Exeter Chiefs Foundation. A big thank you to them for their support in providing access for visitors and locals to this popular attraction.