13 brilliant Devon National Trust places for families

Whether you’re a member of the National Trust or if you’re just looking for somewhere that has all the components of a fun family day out – outdoor space, a bit of history for adults and that all important slice of cake – we’ve compiled this helpful guide to the best National Trust places in Devon. 

We highly recommend National Trust membership as a cost effective way of exploring some of Devon’s most beautiful historic houses and parklands.

You only need to visit four in a year before you’ve made your money back, and you get free parking at National Trust car parks all over England and Wales. So you can quickly start to get benefits of low cost days out from your membership.

Family-friendly National Trust places in Devon

Lots of Devon’s National Trust properties hold events and trails for families during the school holidays. Check out my what’s on guides to find out about half term events, Easter egg trails and summer holiday challenges.

But where’s great to visit in Devon whatever the season? Here’s some of the places we think you’ll love:

Saltram in Plymouth

From its woodland walks, which are perfect for muddy boots and scenic wanders, to its den building areas and pump track, this Devon National Trust property is a definite family favourite.

Inside the Georgian house you can admire artwork, marvel at the traditional decor and visit the famous orangery which, in the festive period, you’ll find kitted out with Christmas decorations. 

Don’t miss the Chippendale sofa in the Saloon and the ornate wallpaper in the Chinese Dressing Room.

Visitor snapshot: Plymouth, PL7 1UH | open all year round (check website for house opening times) | cafes | dogs allowed parklands and on leads in grounds | Find out more: Saltram

Find more things to to in Plymouth.

Buckland Abbey in Yelverton, Dartmoor

Devon-born Sir Francis Drake bought Buckland Abbey after liberating the Spanish of a haul of booty. ‘El Draque’, as they called him, needed a home close to Plymouth from where he launch his expeditions. Buckland Abbey on the edge of Dartmoor fitted the bill.

In reality, Drake spent very little time at the Abbey but it stayed in his family until the 1930s. Some of the curiosities and relics from his travels are on display in the house’s Treasure Room.

Up in the attic there’s an exhibition about Tudor seafaring life and a dressing up box full of period costumes. Don’t miss the Great Barn, which is often used for temporary exhibitions, or the countryside walks around the estate.

Outside there’s play areas for the little ones to explore, a book shop for the avid readers and local produce for you to take home.

When you’re ready for something to eat you can enjoy a bite at The Ox Yard Cafe.

Visitor snapshot: Yelverton, PL20 6EU | open weekends in January and November, then daily in other months (check website for Abbey opening times) | dogs allowed in grounds | Find out more: Buckland Abbey.

Got some time to spare? Here’s some more places to visit in Dartmoor.

Greenway at Galmpton, South Devon

This fascinating house full of curious collectibles was once the holiday home of crime writer Agatha Christie.

You can explore rooms where she would regale her family with plot ideas, wander through the scenic riverside gardens and hit about some balls in the tennis court behind the house.

Take in the wildlife from the boathouse and venture into the local cafe for a spot of lunch. Entertain the kids with the various trail sheets and hobby horses so they can explore the gardens upon their trusty steed.

Plus, with seasonal events on, like their wreath making and decorating workshops you can get creative and take home a self-made souvenir. 

It’s possible to visit Greenway by boat from Dartmouth and by steam train from Kingswear, as well as driving.

Parking is limited and must be booked in advance.

Visitor snapshot: Brixham, TQ5 0ES | open daily from February to October and weekends in November and December| dogs allowed on leads | Find out more: Greenway

Want to see more in the area? Here’s some family-friendly things to do in Brixham.

Compton Castle in Compton, South Devon

Take a stroll around the Gilbert family’s Compton Castle, the next stop on our tour of National Trust places in Devon.

The Gilbert’s have owned the castle near Paignton for more than 600 years and still reside there to this day.

Aside from their family living spaces, you can visit the medieval kitchen and their grand hall. With steeping towers, Tudor games and a squirrel trail for kids – this regional gem makes for a perfect Devon day out with the family. 

Don’t miss the collection of dressing up clothes in the kitchen.

Visitor snapshot: Compton, TQ3 1TA | selected dates from April to October | dogs allowed in orchard | free parking | Compton Castle

Compton is just outside Paignton. Here’s some more places to visit nearby.

Overbecks at Salcombe, South Devon

This horticulturalist’s paradise comes blooming with exotic plants, flowers and greenery for you to admire during your visit.

While the house isn’t currently open to visitors, there’s plenty of things to do and experience at this particular Devon National Trust site in the South Hams.

The small gardens are perfect for occupying little legs or, you can venture further afield to the various walks surrounding Overbecks.

On rainy days you can take shelter in the cactus conservatories and enjoy the polyphonic music box. On clear days you can take in the sea views from the Olive Grove or explore the statue gardens. 

Visitor snapshot: Salcombe, TQ8 8LW | gardens open Sunday to Thursday from March to October | book online | cafe | paid parking | Find out more: Overbecks

Want to explore more while you’re here? Here’s some great things to do in Salcombe.

Coleton Fishacre near Kingswear, South Devon

Step back in time at this 1920’s country retreat which was once owned by the D’Oyly Carte family who were famous for their connections to the world of opera.

Coleton Fishacre is unique among the National Trust’s places in South Devon as it was designed in Art Deco style.

Much of the original furniture and fittings were sold but they have been recreated for visitors to enjoy today.

The gardens at Coleton Fishacre are set in a steep valley with excellent views of the coastline. There’s a den building area and regular spotter trails for children to enjoy.

We love visiting throughout the year as there’s always colour in the gardens. There’s also various trails and a den building area for kids big and small.

Visitor snapshot: Kingswear, TQ6 0EQ | open most weekends in January, November and December, and daily from February to October | dogs allowed on leads | Find out more: Coleton Fishacre

Dartmouth isn’t far away. Why not hop on one of the ferries across the River Dart and explore Dartmouth.

Walk Little Dartmouth

One of our favourite coast walks in South Devon is from the National Trust car park at Little Dartmouth to Dartmouth Castle at the mouth of the River Dart.

It has incredible views from the South West Coast Path, isn’t too much of a challenge and there’s plenty of diversions to keep kids going.

You can even extend your day out and explore the Castle or historic Dartmouth.

Read our full guide to doing the Little Dartmouth circular walk with kids.

Visitor snapshot: Stoke Fleming, TQ6 0JP | open daily | dogs allowed on leads | Find out more: Little Dartmouth.

Baggy Point near Croyde

Baggy Point is another of the National Trust places in Devon that allows you to soak up sea-views.

Overlooking Croyde’s famous surfing spot, you can enjoy some of North Devon’s best waves and enjoy a nice cuppa at the Sandleigh tea room.

Plus, being one of the National Trust’s ‘three paw print’ rated spots, this area makes for the perfect dog walks, with ample poo bins and water bowls to keep your pups going.

Visit at Easter and there’s often an egg hunt for kids.

Visitor snapshot: Croyde, EX33 1PA | open daily | dogs allowed on leads | Find out more: Baggy Point.

There’s plenty to do in nearby. Check out this guide to Croyde and things to do in Ilfracombe.

Heddon Valley near Parracombe

Following the 3.4km Heddon Valley Loop couldn’t be easier with the phototrail, whichgives you a step-by-step guide on this multifaceted walk.

With towering cliffs, woodland walks and coves to explore this route makes for the perfect day out. During the school holidays you’ll find activity trails for the kids. The valley hike is suitable for sturdy, all terrain push chairs.

Finish your day of exploration with a stop at the local pub where you can sit back and relax after your leisurely stroll.

Visitor snapshot: Barnstaple, EX31 4PY | open daily | dogs allowed on leads | Find out more: Hedden Valley.

Arlington Court near Barnstaple

Arlington Court is a Devon National Trust place that’s for everybody – even your furry friends. When kept on a lead, dogs can roam the outdoor areas alongside their owners.

So, venture into the Old Kitchen Tea Room for some lunch, or the Coffee Shop to pick up a coffee to take on the go as you tour the grounds.

Plus, there’s various family events throughout the year – from fungi walks, tree planting days and festive activities too.

Or, simply enjoy roaming their grounds and tiring out the kids on the play area – complete with diggers and a mud kitchen.

Visitor snapshot: Barnstaple, EX31 4LP | open all year round (check website for house opening times) | dogs allowed in grounds and museum on leads | cafe | Find out more: Arlington Court

Castle Drogo in Drewsteighton

Overlooking the Teign Gorge, Castle Drogo is the most recently built castle in England. It was covered in scaffolding for years while it underwent drastic renovation but is now fully open again.

Part of the improvements included the addition of an electric all-terrain tramper so that everyone can enjoy the grounds.

Visit the replica Bunty play house, grab a spotter trail sheet or go geocaching for hidden treasures in the Teign Gorge below the castle.

Visitor snapshot: Chagford, EX6 6PB | open daily from February to December (check website for castle opening times) | cafe | Find out more: Castle Drogo

Killerton near Exeter

If you’re looking for fun outdoor activities at one of the National Trust places in Devon, Killerton has you covered.

Try orienteering hosted by the Devon Orienteering Club, enjoy school holiday kids trails and special events in the house at Easter and Christmas.

If your kids haven’t yet begun the National Trust’s ’50 things to do before you’re 11 and 3/4′ then this is a great place to start. There’s den building, a ‘find a bug’ challenge and a ‘watch a bird’ quest. Encourage your young explorers to start ticking off some outdoorsy achievements. 

Visitor snapshot: Cullompton, EX5 3LE | open all year round (check website for house opening times) | dogs allowed in grounds | cafe | Find out more: Killerton National Trust

Check out our guide to Exeter for more family-friendly places to visit.

A la Ronde in Exmouth

On those sunnier days, A la Ronde in Exmouth makes the perfect picnic spot for you to sit back and enjoy eating al fresco.

With a house filled with mementos from the previous occupants’ travels to Europe, you can take a trip overseas without even leaving Exmouth.

The uniquely built A la Ronde house brings visitors to its door with its quirky features and the tale of the two cousins who once lived there. Spend the afternoon trailing the gardens, taking in the views of the Exe Estuary and wandering through the orchard. 

Visitor snapshot: Exmouth, EX8 5BD | open Wednesday to Sunday from April | Find out more about A la Ronde.

Explore more of the great things to do in East Devon while you’re in the area.