Jeanne du Maurier items in an exhibition at Killerton House, Devon
The National Trust property Killerton, Devon
Part of the History off the Hanger exhibition at Killerton
Crumbs of information about Jeanne du Maurier are hard to find; there is a lot less written about her than about either of her sisters. Both Angela and Daphne have much fuller biographical information available for all to see. So, with some excitement, we bring you a very small insight into the world of Jeanne du Maurier through an exhibition at the beautiful National Trust property, Killerton, in Devon.
The Killerton Estate was owned by the Acland family, who lived there from the late 17th century until 1944, when Sir Richard Acland passed it to the National Trust. Today you will find a beautiful Georgian House, set in 6,400 acres of working farmland, woodland, parkland, cottages and orchards. You will also find the most comprehensive fashion collection, held by the National Trust, with more than 20,000 items of historic clothing and accessories.
History off the Hanger, Killerton House's fashion exhibition for 2026, explores 300 years of hidden stories preserved in clothing and accessories, including a slipper said to have been worn by King James II and remarkable tales of wartime weddings, long-distance devotion and lifelong partnerships. It is here, reflecting lifelong partnerships, that we find items belonging to Jeanne du Maurier.
Jeanne du Maurier was an artist and the younger sister of Daphne du Maurier. She lived on Dartmoor with her partner, the poet, Noel Welch. On display are Jeanne's paint-splashed artist's smock, along with her palette and tools, representing a quiet, deep-rooted love and a shared creative life.
History off the Hanger runs from 14th February until 1st November 2026 at Killerton House, Devon. The exhibition will open with the house, daily 11am to 4pm (last entry 3.30pm). The event is free, but normal admission charges to the National Trust property apply.
Killerton House, Broadclyst, Exeter, Devon, EX5 3LE.
01392 881345
killerton@nationaltrust.org.uk