The Church of All Saints in Kenton is Grade I listed and has an unusually grand Perpendicular character. For anyone interested in church architecture, it offers a tangible connection to the past.

Cresswell and Pevsner date the church to around 1360–1370. However, this dating may refer only to a renovation; the building itself may have been constructed later. Later work should be distinguished from this: in 1854, David Mackintosh restored the church and reroofed it. Further renovation and repair work followed in the 1890s.

Gardens and Landscape at Powderham Castle

A variety of landscapes come together on the grounds of Powderham Castle: formal and informal gardens, pleasure gardens, kitchen gardens, parkland and woodland. Specific garden features include a 7-acre Georgian garden. Circular walks and paths pass selected specimen trees. The grounds therefore include both designed garden areas and parkland and woodland.

The rose garden offers a good vantage point for looking out for deer and other wildlife. If you’re planning a walk, you can also follow the route from the Welcome Centre to the Belvedere, which is listed as taking about 40 minutes. There’s a steep climb at the end, which you can factor into your timing.

Planning Your Journey and Walk Times

Stagecoach bus route number 2 stops outside the entrance to Powderham Castle. A direct train runs from Exeter St Davids to Starcross. Powderham is less than 2 miles from Starcross, and the walk takes about 30 minutes. If you take this train, include the onward walk in your plans. As timetables can change, check bus and train connections before you travel.

The two walking times refer to different sections: about 30 minutes from Starcross to Powderham and about 40 minutes from the Welcome Centre to the Belvedere. They are therefore not times for the same route. The Belvedere walk also includes the steep climb at the end.

Food from the West Country

The Powderham Farm Shop and Bistro stocks a wide selection of cheeses, charcuterie and baked delicacies from independent West Country producers. It also offers locally sourced and speciality foods and drinks. The range and services may change, so if you’re visiting for a particular product, check what’s currently available beforehand.

The Church of All Saints and Powderham offer different points of interest: one focuses on the architectural and restoration history of a listed church, while the other offers practical options for planning around gardens, walks, wildlife spotting and food. When choosing a hotel in Kenton, you could start by considering which of these interests will shape your trip.

Discover More Destinations

North Molton, Moretonhampstead, Exbourne, Northam, Moreleigh, Whimple, Seaton, North Bovey

For the main travel overview: Devon.