Devonshire, England

This was a simple motte before 1070. The Normans built the keep toward the last of the 11th century. Okehampton Castle was begun when a stone keep was built close to West Okement river valley on the Western Edge of Dartmoor. More structure was added to the keep with thick walls and high round-arched windows in the 14th century. Below the Keep more buildings were added which included kitchens, a hall and solar, a chapel, and guardrooms. More accommodations were also added. A gatehouse was built which was joined to the fortress by a long narrow tunnel.

Okehampton Castle was the Ancient seat of the Earls of Devon and a fortress of its powerful Barons.

Henry, Marquis of Exeter owned the castle. It was abandoned in 1539 after he was found guilty of conspiracy and executed by Henry VIII. The property was then seized for the Crown. The castle fell into decay in the 17th century. Its ruins include the remains of the Keep, the Great Hall and Kitchens.

(Pictures used with permission from C Taylor)

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