Knightshayes Court

Designed in 1869 by the eccentric architect William Burges for local lace tycoon Sir John Heathcoat-Amory, Knightshayes is a lavish, castle-like example of Victorian Gothic architectural excess set within expansive grounds. Burges's obsession with the Middle Ages resulted in a plethora of stone curlicues, ornate mantles and carved figurines. Look up as you explore: the elaborate ceilings were covered with plaster until the National Trust discovered and restored them.