A La Ronde

Heritage Site in Devon

England

A La Ronde

A La Ronde is a unique and remarkable heritage site located in Devon, England. This extraordinary 18th-century house was built in 1796 by Jane and Mary Parminter, two cousins who were inspired by their travels across Europe.

The most striking feature of A La Ronde is its unusual circular design, which was influenced by the architecture they encountered during their extensive European journey. The house consists of 16 sides, with each room radiating from a central octagonal hall. The interior is adorned with an array of intricate and delicate decorative elements, including shells, feathers, and mementos from their travels.

The gardens surrounding A La Ronde are equally impressive. They offer breathtaking views of the Exe Estuary and are meticulously maintained with a variety of plants, flowers, and trees. Visitors can wander through winding paths, relax in the peaceful atmosphere, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.

A La Ronde also houses a fascinating collection of objects and artifacts, each with its own unique story. From an extensive collection of miniature paintings to a shell-encrusted gallery, the house showcases the eclectic and eccentric tastes of its former owners.

Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, A La Ronde was acquired by the National Trust in 1991. Today, it serves as a popular visitor attraction, providing an insight into the lives and adventures of Jane and Mary Parminter. Whether exploring the enchanting interior, strolling through the gardens, or learning about the Parminters' fascinating journey, a visit to A La Ronde is a truly captivating experience.

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A La Ronde Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.642/-3.41 or Grid Reference SY0083. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A-La-Ronde House

This quirky house is owned by the National Trust.

Bob Walters

A La Ronde

Sofia

Residential Street in Exmouth

A view of Carter Avenue, a residential street in Exmouth in Devon.

John P Reeves

Room with a view

The view from one of the bedrooms at the National Trust property A la Ronde, near Exmouth. The view is of the River Exe estuary with Starcross in the distance. A la Ronde is a quirky eighteenth century 16-sided house, built by two cousins, Jane and Mary Parminter and is packed to the rafters with mementos from their European grand tours.

Marika Reinholds

The East Devon Way along the northern edge of Exmouth

A 40 mile route that starts at Exmouth and follows the estuary of the River Exe to Lympstone and then turns east over the commons and rolling hills of the East Devon AONB via Harpford, Sidbury, Farway and Colyton to Lyme Regis. It covers a wide variety of landscapes; estuary, high open commons, woodlands and quiet river valleys. Walking is generally not difficult but the route does include some quite sharp climbs.

Tim Heaton

The East Devon Way on Marley Road

Passing through the Hulham district of north Exmouth

Tim Heaton

Jubilee Drive, Exmouth

Stop for Stagecoach bus 57 to Exeter via Exmouth

Tim Heaton

Marley Road joining Higher Marley Road, Exmouth

Taking the East Devon Way out of Exmouth

Tim Heaton

Bystock Wood, off Higher Marley Road, Exmouth

Tim Heaton

A La Ronde

This sixteen-sided cottage was built in the late eighteenth century for Jane and Mary Parminter, on their return from a Grand Tour of Europe. According to tradition, the design was inspired by their visit to the octagonal basilica of San Vitale at Ravenna.

Sofia

A la Ronde under wraps

Unusual country home, cared for by the National Trust, undergoing some essential repairs.

David M Clark

Barn at A la Ronde

More conventional design than the adjacent house!

David M Clark

Foot & Cycle Path in Exmouth

The foot & cycle path in Exmouth, Devon running alongside the railway with King George's playing field on the right-hand side.

John P Reeves

Direction sign as art, Lympstone

South of Lympstone, the Exe Estuary Way (footpath and cyclepath) runs through a cutting, with reinforced walls on each side. These walls were decorated by children from the local school SX9983 : East Devon : Cycle Path, and over time, the paints faded and attracted graffiti. Early in 2022, part of the wall was repainted with direction arrows; as the only choice is to go north or south, the signs do not convey much information.

David Smith