Scheduled MonumentsEnglandTotnes Castle

Totnes Castle

England
List entry 1014607
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Totnes Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification constructed in the late eleventh century following the Norman Conquest, likely established by the de Brionne family. The castle comprises a substantial earthen mound surrounded by a ditch, topped by a circular stone keep built in the twelfth century, with outer defences including a bailey and fragmentary stone walls. Positioned strategically on high ground overlooking the River Dart and the town of Totnes, it served as a significant administrative and defensive centre for the region throughout the medieval period. The site remains substantially intact and represents one of Devon's most important examples of Norman military architecture.

Totnes Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1014607. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Totnes Castle?

Totnes Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification constructed in the late eleventh century following the Norman Conquest, likely established by the de Brionne family. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1014607.

Who is responsible for protecting Totnes Castle?

Totnes 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 1014607.

What other scheduled monuments are near Totnes Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Luscombe Cross (2.8 km), Cornworthy Priory (5.5 km), Four bowl barrows at Bickleigh Brake 540m south west of Bickleigh, forming part of a linear round barrow cemetery (7.1 km).

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