We have compiled a list of Historic Heritage Sites in Devon to visit during your stay. We hope the information about the history sites in Devon helps you with your holiday planning.
1. Berry Pomeroy Castle - Near Totnes, Devon, TQ9 6LJ
Berry Pomeroy Castle lies on a wooded hill overlooking the narrow wooded valley of Gatcombe Brook just outside Berry Pomeroy. The original medieval castle was built in the 12th century by the Pomeroy family and remained in their family until the 16th century when it was sold to Edward Seymour the 1st Duke of Somerset. A new mansion house was built in the grounds during the late 16th and early 17th century hence the ruins you see today of castle and mansion house on one site. It is reputed to be one of the most haunted castles in the UK and stories are retold on the guided tours available by English Heritage.
2. Dartmouth Castle - Dartmouth, Devon, TQ6 0JN
Dartmouth Castle is well situated jutting out on the entrance to the Dart Estuary. A small coastal fort was built in 1388 by John Hawley but the guntower building you see today was built in the 15th and 16th century to protect the merchants of Dartmouth, their warehouses and goods. The 19th century gun battery remained in military use during the 1st and 2nd World Wars and is much in existence today. English Heritage.
Okehampton Castle are the ruins of a motte and bailey castle the largest in Devon and date from the 11th century with steep slopes to the south adding to its natural defences. The rebuilding of the keep in the 14th century are still prevalent today but the buildings were left to decay after the 17th century with tales of hauntings still in existence to this day. Situated in a picturesque setting in the centre of Devon near Dartmoor today it is managed by English Heritage with audio tours available.
4. Totnes Castle - Totnes, Devon, TQ9 5NU
Totnes Castle is a well preserved example of a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle which dates from the 11th century overlooking the town and River Dart. English Heritage.
5. Jurassic Coast - Devon
In 2001 the East Devon and Dorset coast became a natural World Heritage Site the only one in England. The East Devon Jurassic Coast runs from Exmouth to Pinhay Bay and is probably best explored on foot or cycle via the South West Coastal Path that runs the entire length of this coastal area. Several boat trips are also available as well as coastal bus services. The striking red rocks of the East Devon cliffs are due to the presence of iron and date back some 240 million years to when vast deserts covered the area.
6. Branscombe - Seaton, Devon, EX12 3DB
The village of Branscombe contains three National Trust Properties, The Old Bakery, Manor Mill and Forge all restored to former glory as this was the last traditional working bakery in Devon. A village in a beautiful setting on the East Devon coast that forms part of the Jurassic Coast.
7. A La Ronde - Exmouth, Devon, EX8 5BD
A La Ronde is a rather unique 16 sided house that was built in the 18th century for two spinsters on their return from a tour of Europe. It is today managed by the National Trust and displays many mementos of their adventures.
8. Killerton - Exeter, Devon, EX5 3LE
Killerton House was built in the 18th century for the Acland Family, one of the oldest in Devon, and it contains a wonderful costume collection and stunning interior design. The beautiful 18 acre garden was originally created by renowned landscaper John Veitch and is set within 4000 acres of woods which provide several marked walks today. National Trust.
9. Castle Drogo - Near Exeter, Devon, EX6 6PB
Castle Drogo was actually built in the 20th century as a family home for Julius Drewe but has the appearance of a more medieval fortress. In a stunning setting in an elevated position in the Dartmoor National Park with glorious views of the Teign Gorge and a wonderful landscaped garden. The property is owned by the National Trust.
10. Buckland Abbey - Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6EY
Buckland Abbey is set in seclusion in the lovely Tavy Valley and was founded in 1278 by the Cistercian Order of Monks. It is the former home of Sir Francis Drake and there is a lot of memorabilia on display pertaining to the Elizabethan seafarer. There are beautiful gardens and marked woodland walks beyond the property which is owned by the National Trust.
