8 magnificent castles in Devon

For anyone who is captivated by the thought of ancient castles, Devon is the place to go. From romantic ruins to magnificent fully-functioning present day homes, these 8 wonderful castles in Devon offer great days out that will appeal to visitors of all ages.

Berry Pomeroy Castle

Beautiful ruins, stunning scenery and ghostly tales are all on offer at Berry Pomeroy Castle. Construction of the castle started around 1560 but it was never completed. Stroll around the ruins as you listen to the informative audio tour and perhaps enjoy some refreshments from the tearoom. Access costs £4.90 for adults and £2.90 for children aged 5 to 15. The wonderful surrounding woodland is also great for walks. If you’d like to combine multiple castle visits into your trip, Totnes Castle is around 2 miles away and Dartmouth Castle is about 7 miles away.

Okehampton Castle

The ruins of Okehampton Castle once formed Devon’s biggest castle. Originally constructed as a motte and bailey castle that included a stone keep, the remains are now reputed to be haunted. Visitors can discover more about the castle’s history through an audio tour. The ruins are located above River Okement and a nearby picnic spot offers a pretty place to enjoy a packed lunch next to the river. A number of bird species frequent the area and eye-catching wild flowers grow around the ruins during summer, making it a particularly pleasing castle for nature lovers to visit. Access to the ruins is £3.90 for adults and £2.30 for children aged 5 to 15.

Castle Drogo

The last castle to be constructed in England, Castle Drogo boasts a striking setting in Drewsteignton near Exeter. There is plenty to see within the castle itself which is currently undergoing renovation, offering visitors a great behind-the-scenes look at the castle. Visitors can also explore the highest garden looked after by the National Trust and afterwards follow a path into the beautiful Teign Valley located below the castle which is great for walking, mountain biking and spotting local wildlife if you’re lucky. Entry to the castle and the garden costs £8.70 for adults and £4.30 for children.

Watermouth Castle

Watermouth Castle promises a brilliant day of family fun through the combined delights of an intriguing castle and an enchanting theme park. The castle provides great insight into Victorian life thanks to a collection of items that range from toys to machines. Visitors who are feeling brave enough can venture down into the dungeon labyrinths where a host of attractions wait to scare and entertain in equal measure. If they make it back to the surface visitors can enjoy fantastic outdoor rides and wander through a marvellous maze as well. Entry for adults and children costs £12.50 but children under 92cm tall get in free of charge.

Dartmouth Castle

Dartmouth Castle is splendidly situated at the entrance of the Dart Estuary and visitors who climb to the top of the castle will be rewarded with exceptional views. Construction of the castle started in 1388 and it was used for defensive purposes even up to WWII. The castle can be approached by boat from Dartmouth Quay in good weather and in addition to exploring the interior of the castle, visitors can also explore the lovely surrounding woodland and coastal landscapes. Entry is £5 for adults and £3 for children aged 5 to 15.

Totnes Castle

Enjoying a commanding view over Totnes is the striking Norman motte and bailey structure known as Totnes Castle. Visitors are able to climb to the top of the castle keep in order to see the beautiful panoramic views for themselves and the grounds of the castle are ideal for picnics. Entry to the castle costs £3.60 for adults and £2.20 for children aged 5 to 15.

Powderham Castle

Powderham Castle is a grand and beautiful building situated next to the River Exe on the outskirts of the village of Kenton. Construction of the castle in its present form began in 1391 and today visitors can explore the interior via an informative guided tour. The walled garden of the castle features a play area for children as well as some delightful animal residents that will charm adults and children alike. Entry fees vary depending on the time of year but start at £8.50 for adults and £6.50 for children aged 4 to 16. For a small additional charge of £2.50 per person, visitors can enjoy an informative tractor trailer ride into the deer park that surrounds the castle.

Lydford Castle

Two castles were built in Lydford and although only the foundations of the earlier castle are left, much of the second castle ruins remain. The existing Lydford Castle is a 13th century tower that was used as a prison at one time, but now visitors are free to come and go as they please since there is no charge to view these ruins.

Diverse Devon castles that cater to a variety of tastes

From remote woodland settings to stunning seaside positions and worn down but beautiful ruins to impressive and well preserved structures, these 8 magnificent castles in Devon offer an excellent day out and a fun way to learn about history in engaging and unforgettable locations.