POWDERHAM CASTLE has received a special visit from local Member of Parliament Mel Stride as part of Heritage Open Days 2022.

The Central Devon MP, a keen historian and qualified tour guide of some of the UK’s most important landmarks, was eager to support the initiative and met with the Earl of Devon, Charles Courtenay, who sits in the House of Lords as a crossbench peer.

Heritage Open Days enable visitors to come and explore fantastic venues such as Powderham Castle free of charge, with 5,000 visitors taking advantage of this over the Heritage Open Days festival.

Marketing and partnership co-ordinator Kez Paget said it was ‘uplifting to see so many people enjoying the castle and grounds, and exploring the vast history that Powderham is privileged to share with guests.’

Speaking after his visit Mr Stride added: ‘Powderham Castle is one of Devon’s most iconic landmarks and has welcomed more than a million visitors since it opened to the public in 1959.

‘I hope the upcoming Food Festival on October 1 and 2 will be a big success and I would encourage local schools to take advantage of its fantastic Victorian Learning Programme.’

The oldest parts of Powderham Castle date back to the late 14th Century.

It has been the home of the Earls of Devon since then – right up to the present day.

A wide range of events can be catered for at the castle, including weddings.

For more information about Powderham Castle and tickets to its Food Festival visit www.powderham.co.uk. For more information about Heritage Open days visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk.

ABOVE: Mel Stride MP learns about the Victorian Learning Programme with the Earl of Devon Charles Courtenay at Powderham Castle.