Tiverton Castle
The story of Tiverton Castle begins in 1106, when King Henry I granted the vast Manor of Tiverton to Richard de Redvers. Recognizing the strategic importance of the site, de Redvers established the castle as a fortified family residence. For nearly two centuries, it served as the seat of the de Redvers power; Richard’s son, Baldwin, was later elevated to the title of Earl of Devon, cementing the family’s influence in the West Country.
Centuries of Dynastic Change
The castle remained a de Redvers stronghold until 1293, when the direct male line ended. Ownership then transitioned to the prominent Courtenay family, who held the estate for the next 260 years. Throughout this period, the castle evolved from a functional fortress into a grander residence, witnessing the turbulent shifts of English history, from the Wars of the Roses to the Tudor era. After the fall of the Courtenays, the castle passed through several hands, enduring the scars of the English Civil War and the slow passage of time.
Preservation and Modern Stewardship
In 1960, a new chapter of restoration began when Mr. and Mrs. Ivar Campbell purchased the property. They initiated an ambitious conservation program to rescue the historic fabric of the building—a mission that continues today under the dedicated stewardship of their nephew, Angus Gordon.
Visiting Tiverton Castle Today
Now the private home of the Gordon family, Tiverton Castle is a vibrant piece of living history.
Public Tours: From Easter Sunday through the end of October, visitors can explore the castle’s storied architecture and its award-winning gardens.
Historic Stays: For those seeking an immersive experience, the castle offers four 4-star holiday apartments located within the main building, combining medieval atmosphere with modern comfort.
The Collections: Visitors can view a fascinating array of arms and armor, including pieces used during the Siege of Tiverton in 1645.
Address
Tiverton Castle, Park Hill, Tiverton, Devon EX16 6RP
Historic Categorisations and Statutes
Statutory Heritage Listing
Grade: I (Grade One). This denotes a building of "exceptional interest." As one of the primary defensive and manorial sites in Devon, it holds the highest level of statutory protection.
List Entry Number: 1384917
Date First Listed: February 12, 1952
Significance: A Scheduled Ancient Monument and Grade I listed building. It is a complex architectural site featuring a 14th-century gatehouse, 13th-century circular towers, and a 17th-century country house built within the medieval ruins. It represents the transition from a medieval fortress to a post-Civil War residence.
Local Designations
Scheduled Monument: Beyond its listing, the entire site is protected as a Scheduled Monument (Entry Number: 1003847), recognizing its national archaeological importance.
Conservation Area: It is the dominant historic landmark within the Tiverton Conservation Area, situated on high ground overlooking the River Exe and St Peter's Church.
Site Components & Heritage Records
The Gatehouse: A massive 14th-century structure with a primary defensive archway and upper residential chambers.
The Towers: The remains of the Southeast and Southwest round towers, which date back to the initial construction by the Earls of Devon.
The 17th Century Wing: A domestic residence added by the Giffard family after the castle was partially dismantled following the Civil War.
Historic Environment Record (HER): Indexed in the Devon & Dartmoor HER under ID MDV1321.
Chronology of Historic Uses
1106: Established by Richard de Redvers on the orders of Henry I as a motte-and-bailey castle.
1293–1539: The seat of the powerful Courtenay family, Earls of Devon, who rebuilt it in stone.
1645: Besieged and captured by Parliamentary forces under Sir Thomas Fairfax during the English Civil War. A lucky shot hit a drawbridge chain, allowing entry.
18th–19th Century: Served as a private residence and farm, with much of the medieval stone used for local building.
Current/Recent: A private home that is open to the public seasonally, housing a noted collection of Civil War arms and armor.
Useful Links
Tiverton Castle Provides information focused on visiting this private historic home, which was originally built in 1106. Unlike large corporate heritage sites, the website emphasizes the personal, "oasis of calm" atmosphere of the estate. The primary information available includes:
Visitor Essentials (Day Visits)
Opening Times
Pricing
Parking
Highlights of the Experience
Civil War Collection:
History & Architecture
Interactive Features:
The Gardens: Information on the three-acre walled gardens, featuring rare plants, a spring bulb border, a kitchen garden, an orchard, and woodland paths leading to the River Exe.
Facilities & Accessibility
Food & Drink
Accessibility
Pet Policy
Stays & Private Bookings
Self-Catering Accommodation
Group & School Visits
Local Area
