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A la Ronde

A La Ronde, Summer Lane, Exmouth, Devon, EX8 5BD

  • 19 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Site opening

Characterful 16-sided house and grounds with views of the Exe estuary, built in 1796 by cousins Jane & Mary Parminter. Filled with curious mementoes of their Grand Tour travels, and handcrafted decorations from shell, feather and paper.

This unique 16-sided house was described by Lucinda Lambton as having 'a magical strangeness that one might dream of only as a child'.

Due to its fragility there is no physical access to the Shell Gallery. To view it up close with a virtual tour go to 'Things to see and do' section on the website.

It was built for two spinster cousins, Jane and Mary Parminter, on their return from a grand tour of Europe in the late 18th century. It contains many objects and mementoes of their travels.

Outside, there’s a sense of harmony around the orchard, hay meadow and colourful borders, and views over the Exe Estuary.

The orchard is home to old Devon varieties of apple trees, along with plums and medlar trees. A part of the grounds known as the Bee Garden, not usually open, is now a space for quiet reflection. The meadow is full of butterflies and crickets. Why not bring a picnic and enjoy it in the orchard or on the haha lawn?

Timings

Saturday 19 September:
1030-1700

Location & directions

A La Ronde, Summer Lane, Exmouth, Devon, EX8 5BD

Directions:
If driving, approach from A376 (Exeter Road). We encourage people to use public transport where possible. There is a regular bus route: Exeter to Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, Number 57 bus stops within ½ mile at Courtlands Cross, the junction of Exeter Road (A376) and Summer Lane. Lympstone village train station 1 mile; Exmouth station 2 miles.
Contact on day:
Jamie Jones
Telephone number:
+447483180111

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

For full access information, please see: https://www.accessable.co.uk/national-trust/a-la-ronde-national-trust

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