Okehampton Castle
Archaeological Site Medieval motte-and-bailey castle ruin in Devon
Okehampton Castle occupies a defensive mound on Dartmoor’s northern edge as a Norman motte‑and‑bailey ruin; visitors explore earthworks, keep remains and nearby moorland trails.
Okehampton Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey site on the northern edge of Dartmoor in Devon, with stone fortifications dating mainly to the 12th and 13th centuries. The site survives as a combination of earthworks and ruined masonry under the care of English Heritage.
Founded soon after the Norman Conquest, the site was developed in the 11th and 12th centuries and adapted by successive medieval owners; its military importance declined in later centuries and it fell into ruin. Ownership passed through prominent medieval families and the castle experienced partial dismantling over time.
Located just outside the town of Okehampton on the northern fringe of Dartmoor in Devon, the castle occupies a raised position overlooking moorland and the surrounding rural landscape.
- Access and viewpoint: Managed by English Heritage and open to the public, the site is accessible on foot and offers clear views over the northern edge of Dartmoor, making it popular for short walks and heritage visits.
What to See #
- Motte and viewpoint: The motte is the raised earthwork that provides the best panoramic views across northern Dartmoor and the surrounding countryside.
- Inner bailey and curtain wall: Remnants of the stone inner bailey and curtain walls mark the defensive core, with low masonry fragments visible on the grassy interior.
- Domestic ranges and earthworks: Adjacent medieval earthworks and foundations show where domestic ranges and service buildings once stood; these areas are open for public exploration under English Heritage care.
How to Get to Okehampton Castle #
Okehampton Castle is a short walk from Okehampton town centre. By car, take the A30 to the Okehampton exit and follow signs to the castle car park (usually signposted from the town). The nearest train station is Okehampton (seasonal services may apply); check national rail for current schedules. Local buses connect Okehampton with Exeter and nearby villages.
Tips for Visiting Okehampton Castle #
- Approach by foot from the car park to appreciate the view down the river valley; the best vista is from the castle mound.
- Spring lambing season puts sheep on the surrounding commons-watch for loose dogs and shepherds when exploring the grounds.
- Bring binoculars: the castle's position on Dartmoor's edge makes it a fine place for birdwatching, especially skylarks and meadow pipits.
Best Time to Visit Okehampton Castle #
Best visited spring through autumn for walking the surrounding commons and enjoying views across the Dartmoor edge.
Weather & Climate near Okehampton Castle #
Okehampton Castle's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 19°C. Abundant rainfall (1176 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (70 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (118 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (131 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (139 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
