Top 6 Castles in Mid Devon

Mid Devon offers a diverse range of historical fortifications, including medieval motte-and-bailey castles like Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, 14th-century fortified manor houses such as Hemyock Castle, and larger stone castles like Tiverton Castle, which showcases architecture spanning 900 years.

Yes, several castles in Mid Devon are suitable for families. Tiverton Castle offers engaging displays, including Civil War arms and armour that visitors can try on, and beautiful gardens. Hemyock Castle, when open, provides an Interpretation Centre with archaeological materials. Okehampton Castle, with its dramatic ruins and riverside walks, also appeals to families.

Both Tiverton Castle and Hemyock Castle have significant connections to the English Civil War. Tiverton Castle houses a fine collection of Civil War arms and armour. Hemyock Castle played a turbulent role, serving as a garrison for Parliamentarian troops and later being slighted after its capture by Royalists.

The best time to visit castles in Mid Devon is generally during the spring and summer months (Easter to September/October). This period offers pleasant weather for exploring ruins and gardens, and many sites, including Tiverton Castle and Hemyock Castle, are open more regularly during this season. Always check specific opening times before planning your visit.

Yes, many castles are situated in areas with excellent walking opportunities. Okehampton Castle, for example, is on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and offers tranquil riverside and woodland walks. For more extensive hiking options in the region, you can explore routes like the Blackdown Common loop to Culmstock Beacon or the Exe Valley Way: Bickleigh Loop, detailed in the Hiking in Mid Devon guide.

Tiverton Castle is a privately owned residence that offers a more personal visitor experience. It features historic interiors, beautiful walled gardens, and even self-catering accommodation within its grounds. Hemyock Castle is also a private home, open to the public on specific Bank Holiday Mondays and Heritage Open Days.

Mid Devon is home to several motte-and-bailey castles, a type of medieval fortification introduced by the Normans. A prime example is Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey. These castles typically consist of an artificial mound (motte) on which a wooden or stone structure (keep) was built, alongside a fortified enclosure (bailey) containing additional buildings. Heywood's circular motte is about 8 meters high and almost 50 meters in diameter, surrounded by a rock-cut ditch.

Tiverton Castle is typically open on Sundays, Thursdays, and Bank Holidays from Easter Sunday to the end of October, usually from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (last admission at 5 pm). For the most current information on opening hours and any specific visitor requirements, it's advisable to check their official listings, such as those found on Visit Heritage or Visit Devon.

Yes, Okehampton Castle is a striking medieval ruin located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, offering panoramic views over the town of Okehampton and the surrounding moorland. Its dramatic setting makes it a popular choice for those combining historical exploration with natural beauty.

Beyond exploring the castles themselves, Mid Devon offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as those in the Blackdown Hills, or enjoy cycling along the Grand Western Canal. For more specific routes and sports, refer to the MTB Trails in Mid Devon, Hiking in Mid Devon, and Running Trails in Mid Devon guides for detailed options.

Okehampton Castle is one of Devon's largest castles, initially built as a motte-and-bailey fortification between 1068 and 1086 following a revolt against Norman rule. In the 14th century, it was transformed into a luxurious hunting lodge by the Courtenay family. Today, its extensive ruins, including the keep, great hall, and chapel, tell a rich story of nobility, power, and decline.

Visitors particularly appreciate the immersive historical experiences offered by Mid Devon's castles, from exploring 900 years of architecture at Tiverton Castle to understanding the turbulent Civil War history of Hemyock Castle. The dramatic settings, such as Okehampton Castle's views over Dartmoor, and the blend of history with natural beauty, are also highly valued.

Tiverton Castle is particularly noted for its beautiful walled gardens, which include a kitchen garden, an orchard, and a woodland garden set within its romantic ruins. These well-maintained gardens provide a serene environment for strolling and relaxation alongside the historical exploration.