Totnes Castle, Totnes (Dartmoor)

A classic Norman motte and bailey castle, founded soon after the Conquest to overawe the Saxon town.

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) No smoking Information provided Public car parking for a charge (nearby)

Introduction

A classic Norman motte and bailey castle, founded soon after the Conquest to overawe the Saxon town. A later stone shell-keep crowns its steep mound, giving sweeping views across the town rooftops to the River Dart.

History to the present day

Situated on a promontory, commanding the River Dart, Totnes Castle was built by the Normans at a point where three valleys meet. Earliest surviving parts of Totnes Castle date from the 11th century, in the form of earth works surrounding the site. The stone work of Totnes Castle that has survived is likely to have been built over the framework of previous timber fortifications, as was common practice of this period.

During the 13th century the large, circular shell keep was built on top of the motte, but was reconstructed at the beginning of the 14th century when other renovation work was carried out, including the rebuilding of the entrance arch and stairways within the thickness of the walls. Some small-scale additional work took place at a later date. This circular stone keep stands to parapet height even today, and remains almost complete with the various shaped arrow slits visible around the top. Moreover, within the shell keep, stone foundations of a square tower have also survived.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Totnes Castle, Totnes, Dartmoor, , United Kingdom

Opening Times:

1 Apr-30 Jun: 10am-5pm daily

1 Jul-31 Aug: 10am-6pm daily

1-30 Sep: 10am-5pm daily

1-31 Oct: 10am-4pm daily

1 Nov-31 Mar: 10am - 4pm, Sat & Sun (excl. 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan).

2011/12 Admission Prices:

Adult:£3.40

Children (5-15 years):£2.00

Concession:£3.10

Photographs courtesy of English Heritage Photo Library