Columbjohn Chapel and the Gatehouse Arch on the Killerton Estate

Columbjohn Chapel was erected by Sir John Acland in 1608. It was built in the grounds of the original manor house at Columbjohn, purchased by Sir John in 1580. The manor house became the main residence of the Acland family in 1622 and was a significant location during the English civil war, 1642-1646. John Acland (grand-nephew of the above) was awarded a baronetcy during the war for his support of the King. His home was captured twice by the parliamentarian general, Sir Thomas Fairfax and it is believed that Oliver Cromwell visited Fairfax at Columbjohn. At the end of the war parliament sought to confiscate Acland's lands as payment for his role in raising a militia for the crown. An inventory was drawn up that informs us that Columbjohn manor had 22 rooms and several outhouses including a coach house, brew house, workers hall and gate house.

Today the only visible remains of this once significant manor are the chapel and gatehouse arch. Both are depicted in a collection of 1834 sketches commissioned by Sir Thomas Acland to celebrate the picturesque features in the Killerton landscape. In 1851 the chapel was significantly restored by Arthur Acland at the same time that the Chapel of the Holy Evangelists, near Killerton House, was built.

The old chapel has been little used since that time and is being opened especially for the Heritage Open Days festival. Information about the history of the site and the recent excavation will be available to read in the Chapel.

Timings & Tours

Friday 06 September:

1300-1500

Saturday 07 September:

1300-1500

Sunday 08 September:

1300-1500

Monday 09 September:

1300-1500

Tuesday 10 September:

1300-1500

Wednesday 11 September:

1300-1500

Thursday 12 September:

1300-1500

Friday 13 September:

1300-1500

Saturday 14 September:

1300-1500

Sunday 15 September:

1300-1500

Location & directions

Columbjohn Farm, Rewe, Exeter, Devon, EX5 4ER

Directions:

Parking at Culombjohn is limited. A footpath leads from National Trust, Killerton House. The walk is approximately 2Km and mostly flat. A map can be picked up from Killerton's visitor reception.

Contact on day:

Killerton 01392 881345

Telephone number:

+441392881345

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The Chapel is not normally open to visitors. There are no visitor facilities or surfaced paths. The Chapel is accessed by public footpath across grassland and through a kissing gate.

Additional information

Information will be available in the Chapel about the history of the site and the recent archaeological excavation of the area.

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