Tiverton Castle, Tiverton, Devon
Part romantic ruins, part peaceful private home, Tiverton Castle has a history that stretches back over 900 years to when it was built of wood and owned by the first Normal Earls of Devon. Since then this former stronghold on the banks of the River Exe in the Mid Devon town of Tiverton has been rebuilt in stone, enlarged and altered, and besieged in the English Civil War; the current owners open their doors to the public during the year and allow you to have a look round pretty much free range, although if you go on a Sunday you'll find a knowledgeable guide on hand.
Go along; it's all rather fun, and fascinating at the same time. There are secret passages to discover, ghost stories to make you shiver, and if you fancy a bit of dressing up you can try on some English Civil War armour. Hopefully the weather will be decent enough for you to have a stroll around the walled gardens; they cover three acres including a kitchen garden, orchard and riverside woodland, and they are beautiful, encompassing the castle ruins so it all looks like something out of a fairytale.
Open Easter Sunday to the end of October on Sundays, Thursdays and Bank Holiday Mondays from 2.30 pm-5.30 pm.
Group visits outside of these hours are possible – please ring to arrange.
T: 01884 253200/255200 All information correct at the time of writing