Scheduled MonumentsEnglandBarnstaple Castle

Barnstaple Castle

England
List entry 1020922
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Barnstaple Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification situated in the town of Barnstaple in north Devon, England. The castle was established in the late eleventh century following the Norman Conquest and served as a significant administrative and defensive centre for the region. The site retains its characteristic earthwork features, comprising a raised mound with surrounding ditches, though little of the original stonework survives above ground. The castle declined in importance from the medieval period onwards and is now preserved as an archaeological monument, with its earthwork remains providing evidence of Norman settlement patterns and military organisation in Devon.

Barnstaple Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1020922. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Barnstaple Castle?

Barnstaple Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification situated in the town of Barnstaple in north Devon, England. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1020922.

Who is responsible for protecting Barnstaple Castle?

Barnstaple Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1020922.

What other scheduled monuments are near Barnstaple Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Burridge Hill fort (2.6 km), Tawstock holy well (3.5 km), Bowl barrow at Codden Beacon (4.6 km).

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