DOWNES House stands as a remarkable example of architectural beauty and historical significance on the outskirts of Crediton. It is set in the heart of the Devon countryside and positioned on a picturesque rise overlooking a tranquil valley.

It has been a cherished family home for generations and is presently lived in by Henry and Susan Parker.

Henry inherited the Downes Estate from his mother, Rosemary Parker (nee Buller).

Her great uncle was General Sir Redvers Buller, famous for winning a VC in the Zulu War in 1879 and for relieving Ladysmith in 1900 when he was Commander in Chief of British Forces during the Second Boer War in South Africa. Redvers was born at Downes in 1839 and died there in 1908.

The house has been the seat of the Bullers since 1739 when James Buller married Elizabeth Gould whose grandfather built Downes in 1692.

It has therefore been in the hands of the same family for more than 330 years. Henry became the 13th owner and the 10th generation to live at Downes following the death of his mother in 1997.

Downes is built in the Palladian style and has changed significantly over the years.

The home was built in 1692 and is Grade II* Listed.

Originally constructed of red brick by Moses Gould, the property was faced with Beer Stone by James Buller in 1794 before undergoing extensive changes during the 19th Century.

James Howard Buller altered the east aspect to conform with Victorian taste and in 1910 Tremayne Buller modernised the house.

Maintenance is always ongoing, and the Parkers have undertaken a comprehensive restoration programme since they took over.

Recent works have included the repair of the roofs. Further work is due to take place shortly to repair and replace the Beer stone facing the front of the house.

The Parkers have embraced their role as stewards of Downes, ensuring that its rich history is not only preserved but also shared with the wider community. By opening their home for tours and events, they invite others to delve into the stories of the past, creating a bridge between history and contemporary life. Their aim has been to foster a sense of community and shared heritage in and around Crediton.

The house is open for conducted tours at 2.15pm daily during the following weeks:

Monday, April 21 to Sunday, April 27; Monday, May 5 to Sunday, May 11; Monday, May 26 to Sunday, June 1; and Monday, August 25 to Sunday, August 31.

Visitors on tours can see wonderful portraits and paintings, together with items relating to General Buller.

If you are joining a tour, the gardens are open between 1.30pm and 4.30pm.

Bookings can be made by email: [email protected] or by telephone 01363 460160. Or you can just turn up on the day.

The Parkers look forward to welcoming visitors, many of whom share their own stories of the house.

For further details and costs, visit: https://www.downesestate.co.uk .