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Location
Okehampton, Devon, England
Description
Okehampton Castle is situated 1 mile from the town centre of Okehampton, 22 miles west of Exeter in the south west of England.
Situated on a wooded spur overlooking the Okement river, Okehampton Castle is the remains of Devon's largest Castle.
The castle's two storey rectangular keep is accessed through firstly an inner and then an outer gatehouse which are linked together by a narrow barbican passage. Once inside the bailey there are the remains of a chapel, hall, living accommodation and kitchens.
Facilities
The castle is open to the public daily from 10am between April and September, and as well as visiting the ruins visitors can take a walk long the river bank and enjoy a picnic.
Hot and cold drinks and snacks can be purchased at the ticket kiosk.
History
At the time of the Doomsday Book in 1086 the castle was owned by the Sheriff of Devon, Baldwin de Brionne.
Very little is written of the history of the castle, but it is known that in the 14th century the keep, curtain wall and most the luxurious residential accommodations were built by the Marquees of Exeter, Henry Courtenay, and he lived there until he was found guilty conspiracy against Henry VIII in 1539 and was executed.
The castle was then partly demolished and left to become a ruin.
The Arts
Due its beautiful appearance, even as a ruin, the castle was twice painted by the English Romantic landscape painter J.M.W Tuner.
Other Castles in the Area
Castle Drogo, Devon
Launceston Castle, Cornwall
Lydford Castle, Devon
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