Being a warm and sunny day in Devonshire on Friday I decided to pay a visit to my local castle which is only a short 15-20 minute walk from my families home. It had been some years since I last visited and I had forgotten much of the history of the building.
Okehampton Castle is a medieval motte and bailey castle in Devon, England. It was built between 1068 and 1086 by Baldwin FitzGilbert following a revolt in Devon against Norman rule, and formed the centre of the Honour of Okehampton, guarding a crossing point across the West Okement River. It continued in use as a fortification until the late 13th century, when its owners, the de Courtenays, became the Earls of Devon. With their new wealth, they redeveloped the castle as a luxurious hunting lodge, building a new deer park that stretched out south from the castle, and constructing fashionable lodgings that exploited the views across the landscape. The de Courtenays prospered and the castle was further expanded to accommodate their growing household.
The de Courtenays were heavily involved in the 15th century Wars of the Roses and Okehampton Castle was frequently confiscated. By the early 16h century the castle was still in good condition, but after Henry Courtenaywas executed by Henry VIII the property was abandoned and left to decay, while the park was rented out by the Crown. Parts of the castle were reused as a bakery in the 17th century, but by the 19th century it was completely ruined and became popular with Picturesque painters, including J. M. W. Turner. Renovation work began properly in the 20th century, first under private ownership and then, more extensively, after the castle was acquired by the state. In the 21st century it is controlled by English Heritage and operated as a tourist attraction.
Source: Wikipedia
Sadly the castle is no longer in the best of condition as you can see from the picture above however it still makes a great outing for history lovers and families alike. It is only a short walk from the centre of Okehampton though I strongly suggest that you check their website before you visit as the opening times do very depending on the time of the year.
While you are visiting the castle you should spend some time walking around the town of Okehampton as there are many a historical sight to be seen from the White Hart Hotel which played a key role in the Napoleonic wars and the route getting messages and supplies from London to Plymouth. Just down the road from the hotel is a bridge and a plaque which is the location of the towns prison which has long since been taken down.
Directly opposite to the hotel stands the Okehampton Town Hall with many an example of heraldry and history for those of you that are interested in such things rather like myself.
If you head in the directions of the supermarkets you will notice on the wall of one of them over looking the round about is a modern version of the towns coat of arms.
I wanted to share with you a image of the town's coat of arms though sadly the best one could find was displayed on the town council's website.
Source: Okehampton Town Council
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