Scheduled MonumentsEnglandHolwell Castle

Holwell Castle

England
List entry 1003872
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Holwell Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification located in Devon, England, dating to the Norman period following the conquest of 1066. The site comprises a substantial earthwork consisting of a raised mound or motte with an associated bailey, typical of early Norman defensive architecture in the southwest. Like many such castles constructed in the decades following 1066, it served as a seat of local authority and a defensive stronghold for its Norman lords. The monument survives today primarily as earthwork remains, preserving the characteristic topography of this important class of medieval military architecture.

Holwell Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1003872. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Holwell Castle?

Holwell Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification located in Devon, England, dating to the Norman period following the conquest of 1066. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1003872.

Who is responsible for protecting Holwell Castle?

Holwell 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 1003872.

What other scheduled monuments are near Holwell Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Round barrow 100yds (90m) NE of Five Cross Way (7 km), Smythapark hillfort (7 km), Round barrow cemetery 500m east of Little Bray Cross (7.1 km).

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