Help us bring this grade II* building back to life

We are absolutely devastated that Poltimore House suffered a major fire in the early hours of 9 April with extensive damage to the house in a suspected arson attack.

Over the past couple of years, the House and Grounds have become a major hub for our local community with a farm shop, thriving cafe, open house sessions and events – all supported by dedicated volunteers.

Dr Peter Totterdill, Chair of Poltimore House Trust, said:

“This amazing place has been loved by so many people over the years, and my heart goes out to all the many volunteers who have worked so hard to protect and restore Poltimore House. I have been at the House all morning and am shocked at the scale of the devastation.

“I know that many people are distraught by what has happened and we are all feeling a deep sense of loss. However I have been in touch with many of our Board members and we’re determined to save what we can of this important part of Devon’s heritage, and to hold on to our vision of Poltimore House and Grounds as a place for everyone.

“More than ever, we need everyone’s help to recover from this disaster and to move forward with optimism.”

Poltimore House Trust is committed to making the House and Grounds safe following this terrible fire and to assess options for future restoration. We will be launching a fundraising appeal in the coming days and will share this once live.

The police are appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious around the time of the fire to contact them online or by telephoning 101, quoting crime reference 50240083403.

On behalf of The Poltimore House Trust trustees and all our dedicated volunteers, we would like to thank the emergency services and our local community for all your support.

Crowdfunder appeal

“Undisturbed by the busy hum of life the park is exactly that sort of retreat which moves the imagination, keeps the unhappy from thinking and creates the most pleasurable feelings ….. ”  23rd August, 1871 Exeter Flying Post