Ancient castle with fine interiors and sub-tropical gardens

Dramatically sited on a wooded hill, a castle has existed here since at least Norman times. The 13th-century gatehouse survives, and the present building was remodelled in 1868-72 by Antony Salvin for the Luttrell family, who lived here for 600 years. The fine oak staircase and plasterwork of the 17th-century house he adapted can still be seen. A sheltered terrace to the south is home to palms, subtropical plants, a variety of citrus trees, and the National Collection of Strawberry Trees (Arbutus). There is a pleasant walk beside the River Avill.