Totnes Castle, Medieval castle in Totnes, England
Totnes Castle is a Norman fortress built on a raised earthwork, featuring a circular stone keep and defensive walls with openings for archers. The fortification overlooks the River Dart and the surrounding landscape from its elevated position.
The castle was founded in the late 11th century following the Norman Conquest as part of a network of strongholds controlling the region. It remained an important defensive position for generations before gradually losing its military function.
The castle served as the visual and political center of Norman power in the valley for centuries. Today it remains a focal point for how locals and visitors understand the town's medieval roots.
The site sits on uneven terrain and can be slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is advisable. A typical visit takes about an hour to explore the keep and walk around the perimeter.
A circular wall walk wraps around the keep, allowing visitors to see the fortification and its surroundings from different vantage points. This path reveals how the castle's position controls views over the town and river below.
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