DOWNES on the outskirts of Crediton has been home to the same family for more than 330 years and is now lived in by the current owners, Henry and Susan Parker and their family.

Each year a number of dates for guided house tours of the family home can be booked.

The next for this year will take place each day starting tomorrow, Monday, May 6 up to and including Sunday, May 12.

Set in the heart of the Devon countryside and positioned on a picturesque rise overlooking a tranquil valley, visitors on tours can see wonderful portraits and paintings, together with items relating to General Sir Redvers Buller, GCB, GCMG, VC, famous for winning a VC in the Zulu War of 1879 and relieving Ladysmith from the Boers in 1900.

The home was built in 1692 and is Grade II* Listed, sitting in rolling parkland.

Originally constructed of red brick by Moses Gould, the property was faced with Beer Stone by James Buller in 1794 before undergoing extensive changes during the 19th Century.

For availability and to book a tour, email: [email protected]  or telephone 01363 460160.

The cost is £10 for adults, £7 for children.

If you are joining a tour, the gardens are open between 1.30pm and 4.30pm.

Other dates for the year include: May 27 to June 2 and August 26 to September 1.

No dogs are permitted in the house or gardens.

For further details, visit: https://www.downesestate.co.uk .