Top castles in Devon

Whether you’re planning a day out for your family or a date with your loved one, castles in Devon are a fantastic choice. With plenty to discover, admire, inspire and discuss, castles also offer shelter from the ever-changeable British weather.

Devon castles range in age, size, state of ruin and areas of interest. There’s Castle Drogo, which was constructed in the early 20th century and was the last castle to be built in England. There’s Berry Pomeroy Castle, which is reputed to be one of the most haunted castles in the country. And there’s a lot in between – so if you’re a history buff, a fan of ghost stories or you like to imagine yourself living somewhere grand, you’re in for a treat.

When you’re tired of exploring, you’ll want a castle of your own in which to rest. We have a wide range of self-catering accommodation available across Devon, and while the cottages may not rival the tourist attractions for size and splendour, they will certainly have the mod cons to ensure your stay is safe and comfortable.

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Berry Pomeroy Castle

Berry Pomeroy Castle is a romantic ruin near Totnes which was originally built in the 15th century by the Pomeroy family, then later expanded by the Seymours who planned to build an Elizabethan mansion within the castle’s walls. The intention was that it would be the most spectacular house in Devon, but the project was never finished. It lay abandoned for 100 years until it began to attract artists and sightseers in the late 18th century. Some of the tales of hauntings and ghostly apparitions at the site can be heard on the free audio tour.

Powderham Castle

At Powderham Castle, which is set in a deer park on the banks of the River Exe near Exeter, you can immerse yourself in over 600 years of history. It’s one of our top suggestions for things to do in Devon in the rain. Guided tours of the Courtenay family home are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, but you may also explore at your own leisure. The gardens, including the rose garden and Georgian American garden, offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Powderham’s past. You can enjoy a walk through Powderham’s woodlands and trek to the iconic Belvedere Tower in around 40 minutes. There are play areas and a pet’s corner with animals including guinea pigs and alpacas. 

Dartmouth Castle

This fortress has guarded the narrow entrance to the Dart Estuary and the vibrant port of Dartmouth for over 600 years. Dartmouth Castle features include an atmospheric gun tower, winding passages and a climb to the top of the battlements – and from the top, you can enjoy stunning views over the town. If the weather is good, you can add even more excitement to your day out by catching a river boat from the town quay – you’ll land a minute’s walk away from the entrance to the castle. Whether you take the ferry boat or go for a coastal or woodland walk around the castle, you’re likely to spot plenty of wildlife. To fill the rest of your day out, read our guide to the best things to do in Dartmouth.

Okehampton Castle

The ruins of the largest castle in Devon are located in the foothills of Dartmoor, overlooking the River Okement and surrounded by beautiful woodland. Okehampton Castle was originally built by Norman conquerors as a symbol of power, and the remains of the Norman keep can be explored. There are splendid countryside views from it. The castle was later converted into a luxurious residence. Extensive parts of the medieval guest lodgings, great hall, chapel and priests’ lodgings remain and tell a fascinating story of castle life. Like Berry Pomeroy, the castle is reputedly haunted. A free audio tour is available on request.

Compton Castle

Compton Castle is a dramatic medieval manor and small formal garden in the village of Marldon, near Paignton. The house, whose fortifications include towers and a portcullis, has been home to the Gilbert family for over 600 years. The garden changes with the seasons, with a variety of plants, sights and smells to discover, including a rose garden and a medieval knot garden. The whole family will be entertained by the nature trail, garden games and costumes which can be tried on.

Watermouth Castle

Photo credit: Watermouth Castle

Watermouth Castle, near Ilfracombe, is not a castle in the fortress sense – it’s more of a country house built to look like one. It was built in 1825 for the Basset family, who left the castle in 1945. Watermouth Castle is now home to a family theme park, set in 17 acres of dog-friendly, landscaped gardens, with fantastic views of Watermouth Cove and the North Devon coastline. Features of the tourist attraction include a maze, toboggan run, river ride, crazy golf, swing boats, a vintage arcade and a model railway room. It prides itself on offering a unique and magical experience with plenty to capture the imagination.

Totnes Castle

Totnes Castle, which was built 900 years ago during the Norman Conquest, stands high above the town. It’s a motte and bailey castle, with a later stone keep, giving spectacular views. Defensive arrow slits can be seen in the castle walls. Visitors can enjoy a picnic in the peaceful grounds under the shelter of old trees. You could combine a visit to Totnes Castle with one to the castles at Berry Pomeroy or Dartmouth, which are a short drive away.

Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo is a country house and mixed-Revivalist castle that sits high above the ancient woodlands of the Teign Gorge, near Drewsteignton. As it was constructed between 1911 and 1930, it claims the title of the last castle to be built in England. Inspired by the rugged Dartmoor tors that surround it, the castle was designed and built by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, for self-made millionaire Julius Drewe, the founder of the Home and Colonial Stores. It has a formal garden which is colourful in all seasons and there are miles of paths to explore in the Teign Gorge, which is teeming with wildlife.

Tiverton Castle

Photo credit: Tiverton Castle/Steven Haywood Photography

Tiverton Castle was originally built in 1106 and rebuilt and much enlarged in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was once the home of the powerful, medieval Earls of Devon and a Plantagenet Princess. There were additions and alterations down the centuries, meaning all periods of architecture from medieval to modern can be seen. There are also beautiful walled gardens within the romantic ruins. 

Castles in Devon map

Please find all the castles in Devon mentioned above with the help of our handy map.

Stay with us in a cottage near a castle

Devon’s castles vary enormously, from the ancient to the relatively recent, and from the ruined to the renovated. Each one is unique, but they all have a lot to teach us about the past and they are all well worth a visit.

When you’ve decided which castle or castles you want to add to your itinerary, you can think about where to stay nearby. We have cottages right across the county, so you needn’t be more than a short drive away, and with properties for parties of two to ten guests or more, you’ll be spoilt for choice.