Exevale Hospital (also known as Devon County Asylum, Devington Park)

Set in vast grounds, and approached past formal lodges by a ceremonial avenue, Exevale Hospital was the Victorian institution at its most imposing. It was built between 1842 and 1845 by Charles Fowler (designer of the conservatory at Syon House, as well as parts of Powderham and the Upper Market in Exeter), and opened as the Devon County Pauper Lunatic Asylum.

A separate sanatorium was added in 1877, and further extensions in 1906. The original buildings, remarkably complete, are an interesting example of Fowler's practical approach to the asylum design of the time, combining a compact plan and ease of supervision with reasonably spaced living quarters.

There is a tall central block with semi-circular service range behind, from which six lower wings radiate. Between them were exercise yards and gardens, enclosed by perimeter walls with lodges (one north-west lodge remains). Plainly detailed, the main buildings are of red brick with granite dressings, with windows within round-headed arches. The floors and roof are of fireproof construction (laminated tiles on cast-iron bearers).

There is also a Cruciform Gothic chapel by Joseph Neale, dating from 1877. It is of red stone with Bath dressings, lancet windows, and a bellcote over the crossing.

Although now converted into apartments the central airing court survives, along with the spaces forming the airing courts between the radial wings. One shelter also survives. The Asylum cemetery, with a very attractive lytch gate, is notable. Entrances lodges, avenue, chapel and associated areas of shrubbery appear intact, as well as a sports field which formed part of the asylum facilities

Type

Garden

Purpose

Ornamental

Principal Building

Domestic / Residential

Period

Victorian (1837-1901)

Survival

Part: standing remains

Open to the public

Yes

Civil Parish

Exminster