Totnes Castle, Devon

Totnes Castle is one of the best preserved examples of a Norman motte and bailey castle in England. It is located on the River Dart in Devon. The surviving stone keep and curtain wall date from around the 14th century.

The castle occupies a prominent position on the top of a large hill above the town, and guards the approach to three valleys.

The first castle on this site is believed to have been built in the 11th century by the Breton Juhel of Totnes who was one of William the Conqueror's lieutenants.
However, this first building probably consisted of a wooden palisade and tower.

By 1326, the castle had fallen into ruin and was under the control the de la Zouch family. During this period a royal order was made for the repair of the fortifications. As a result of the order, the castle was refortified with a new shell keep and stables, using Devonian limestone and red sandstone for the construction.

Following the Wars of the Roses in the 15th century it once again fell into disrepair. The castle was occupied for a period during the English Civil War but saw no notable action.

Opening Times

Opening days and times vary. Please check the website.

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Ticket Prices

Adults: £3.40
Children: £2.00 (5-15 years)
Concessions: £3.10
EH Member Cost: Free

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Disabled Facilities

Keep accessible only via steep steps.

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More Information

Telephone: 01803 864406

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