Discover Broadclyst: Killerton, Clyston Mill and Historic Trails

Broadclyst combines impressive manor houses, historic mills and varied trails with special nature experiences. Those planning a trip can choose between culture, exercise and peaceful stays in the countryside. When searching for a holiday cottage or holiday home, the desired way of spending each day is particularly important: around Killerton, longer walks and discoveries take centre stage, while Broadclyst also offers short walks and historic sights.

Killerton: Fashion History and Outdoor Activities

Killerton House is home to the National Trust’s largest fashion collection. More than 20,000 historic garments and accessories make a visit an unusual insight into the history of clothing. Those who would like to experience culture beyond indoor spaces can also find orienteering courses at Killerton that are suitable for all ages and ability levels. This allows the visit to be tailored to individual interests, whether in a more leisurely or active style.

For cyclists, the cycle route from Killerton to the village of Broadclyst is a good option. The six-mile circular route passes through farmland and the Devon countryside. Another possibility is the route from Killerton to Clyston Mill in the neighbouring village of Broadclyst. This route is also six miles long, follows a circular path through the Devon countryside and can be completed on foot or by bicycle.

Clyston Mill and Historic Traces

Clyston Mill is a historic watermill on the River Clyst on the Killerton estate in Broadclyst. It is considered to be a building from the early 19th century and one of the last surviving watermills in the south-west of England. Its characteristic feature is the undershot waterwheel, which was installed in 1880. The orchard at Clyston Mill provides visitors with a place for a picnic and complements the mill visit with a peaceful break outdoors.

Broadclyst itself also contains traces of various periods. Broadclyst House is a Grade II listed house dating from around 1830. The monument at Broad Clyst includes the remains of a medieval basement as well as part of the medieval manor settlement of the Nonants family, who held the estate from approximately 1100 to 1340. The parish church of St John the Baptist dates largely from the late 15th century and preserves significant structural elements from the 14th century.

Short Walks and Nature Experiences

For a manageable outing, the Broadclyst Adventurer Walk is a suitable choice. The easy, 45-minute circular route starts and ends at the bus stop near the Red Lion Inn in Broadclyst. This makes it a clearly defined option for a walk when there is no time available for longer routes. Those who prefer a break in the countryside can plan a picnic in the orchard at Clyston Mill. For nature enthusiasts, the Killerton estate includes habitats in which four species of owl, 13 species of bat and 28 species of butterfly occur. Clyst Meadows in Broadclyst is also a dog-friendly country park, making it another specific option for travellers bringing their dog.

Getting There and Choosing Suitable Accommodation

Clyston Mill can be reached from Exeter by bus via Broadclyst. From the village church, follow the signposts to the mill. This information may play a role when planning your day and choosing accommodation: if you would like to combine historic destinations and walks without an unnecessarily packed schedule, you can coordinate your travel arrangements and preferred circular route in advance. For a stay involving different age groups, the orienteering courses at Killerton offer a different option from the easy Adventurer Walk. This allows Broadclyst to be arranged around culture, nature and exercise according to individual interests.

Discover More Places

For more travel ideas, you can also discover Bottreaux Mill, Northam, Teignmouth, Moreleigh, Longdown, Chulmleigh, Ashburton and Ware.

To the main travel overview: Devon.