Down St Mary Vineyard

Situated on a steep, sun filled, south-facing slope above the meandering River Yeo, Down St Mary Vineyard enjoys a benign microclimate in the beautiful heart of rural mid Devon. The dry whites are deliciously fruity and the medium dry whites are mellow and aromatic.  An award winning range of wines is produced – from light easy drinking table wines, to regional and quality wines with delicious fruit on the palate and a long, complex finish.  A sparkling wine is also available.  Produced by the classic methode traditionelle of bottle fermentation, the result is a dry, biscuity, full-flavoured fizz.

Yearlstone Vineyard, Bickleigh, Devon

You don't have to visit Bordeaux to discover more about the magic of wine. Yearlstone Vineyard is one of England's top 25 wineries, + Vineyard. Take the opportunity to visit our cafe and winebar.

Here, on steep slopes as the River turns due south in its run to the regional capital, Exeter, is our vineyard, at around 200 feet above sea level. Red Devon sandstone breaks up into shale, the hills on three sides create a natural amphitheatre where light levels are high.

In summer, early morning mists rise up from the riverbed creating a subtropical effect but burn off by midday. Even in peak summer this part of mid-Devon is sleepy and quiet, apart from the sounds of various birds of prey and corks popping in the café-winebar. A perfect stopping off point on a long journey turning off the motorway, Bickleigh itself is a noted beauty spot with thatched pubs on the riverfront, although the best food and wine is on offer at the vineyard!

Devon Wine School, Crediton, Devon

Exploring and enjoying fine wine in a beautiful setting.

    * Devon Wine School offers Great Wine & Food with Rooms

    * Professional wine courses and fun wine tastings in tranquil surroundings

    * The perfect gift for friends and family

The Devon Wine School, set in lovely tranquil countryside 10 miles north of Exeter and within 25 minutes of the Tiverton Junction 27 of the M5, offers the chance to taste and enjoy fine wines. Comparing and contrasting some of the world’s greatest wines can reveal what lies behind the label and helps you appreciate a winemakers’ passion in creating a wine that vividly reflects its origin.

Tastings are fun and informal and are matched with delicious food made with ingredients mainly drawn from local producers. These tastings are ideal for both beginners and experienced tasters alike. They also make perfect presents for friends and family.The school has 2 very comfortable en-suite bedrooms and outside we have a hard tennis court. Also offer conference space for up to 12 people. The school is run by Alastair Peebles, Master of Wine, and his wife Carol, a trained chef.

Tiverton Castle, Tiverton, Devon

Tiverton Castle was originally built in 1106 by order of Henry I, and later rebuilt and much enlarged in the 13th and 14th centuries, it was once home of the powerful medieval Earls of Devon and of a Plantagenet Princess. With later additions and alterations down the centuries all periods of architecture from medieval to modern can be seen, with beautiful walled gardens within the romantic ruins.

Besieged during the English Civil War by General Sir Thomas Fairfax, it fell due to a lucky shot hitting a drawbridge chain. This was the only time in its long history that it saw battle. Nowadays a peaceful, private house, the buildings, furnishings and exhibits reflect the colourful history and development. With continuing conservation and restoration of the buildings and beautiful gardens there is always something new and interesting to see.

Knightshayes Court, Tiverton, Devon

Knightshayes Court is a striking Victorian country house with richly decorated interiors and one of Devon's finest gardens.
Begun in 1869, Knightshayes is a rare survival of the work of designer William Burges.

    * New Victorian walled garden for 2005
    * Celebrated garden featuring water lily pool and topiary, specimen trees and rare shrubs
    * An atmospheric insight into Victorian grand country house life

From the smoking and billiard rooms to the elegant boudoir, the rich interiors are enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Delight in the outstanding gardens featuring a water lily pool and unusual topiary, fine specimen trees, rare shrubs and delightful seasonal colours. Meander through the grounds on an attractive woodland walk.