A-la-Ronde

Heritage Site in Devon

England

A-la-Ronde

A-la-Ronde is a unique and fascinating heritage site located in Devon, England. This distinctive 16-sided house was built in the late 18th century by two cousins, Jane and Mary Parminter, who were inspired by their travels across Europe.

The house is nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Exe estuary, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Its design is highly unusual, featuring a central rotunda with two galleries that spiral around it, creating a sense of continuous movement and flow. The walls are adorned with an array of decorative shells, feathers, and other curiosities, reflecting the owners' love for collecting and showcasing exotic items.

Visitors to A-la-Ronde can explore the various rooms, each with its own distinctive theme. The Drawing Room, for example, is elegantly furnished with antique furniture and showcases an impressive collection of shells and minerals. The Shell Room is a true marvel, with its walls entirely covered in seashells arranged in intricate patterns and designs.

In addition to the house itself, A-la-Ronde boasts beautiful gardens that feature a variety of plants, flowers, and even a small pond. The gardens provide a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, and there are several benches strategically placed to allow visitors to fully appreciate the stunning views.

A-la-Ronde is a captivating heritage site that offers a glimpse into the lives and passions of its original owners. With its unique architecture and fascinating interior, it is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking a truly memorable experience in the heart of Devon.

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A-la-Ronde Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.642/-3.407 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