Devon and Torquay: Of Castles and Cottages

The best way to make the most out of your Devon experience is to stay in one of the holiday cottages in Devon. Holiday cottages in Devon are quaint and comfortable and some actually have been restored so that a visitor’s stay in one of these holiday cottages in Devon can be like living in a time capsule and bring you back to a different time. During the medieval times, castles were the residence of choice of the aristocrats. The Castles in Devon were built with extremely large walls built out of rock and have weathered the test of time.
Devon is home to nine castles, some more preserved than the others yet each individually have their own distinctive charm. Some have the feeling of grandeur and others a more serene atmosphere. Tourists can expect the feeling of the latter in holiday cottages in Devon.

Berry Pomeroy Castle

This castle was built in the 15th century by the Pomeroy family. The castle is still fairly much intact and tours include audio commentary and a visit to the best room in the castle, the tea room. Up to this day a wall painting of the castles’ three kings is still on display. Pomeroy’s successors the Seymour have built a mansion with ambitions to have the most magnificent house in all of Devon. Unfortunately it was never completed. Left in ruin, the castle became the subject of ghost stories. Some actually believe that the castle is haunted and the accounts of their personal experiences are incorporated in the tour. Should you find yourself spooked after a visit to this castle, head back and enjoy the comfort that holiday cottages in Devon provide.

Dartmouth Castle

Construction of this castle started in 1388 and was finished in 1403 by Edward IV with the intent to build a castle with artillery in mind. Only one of its round towers remains unfortunately. Aside from it being a historical landmark, Dartmouth Castle is also a very popular picnic spot in Devon. A day trip for a nice picnic from one of the holiday cottages is well worth the travel.

Okehampton Castle

The Okehampton Castle was Devon’s largest castle during its time. Now its ruins have been converted into picnic spots and hiking trails. The former spectacular residence of Hugh Courtenay the Earl of Devon in the 14th century now serves as inspiration for local spook stories. A more modest place to stay would be in one of the spacious holiday cottages and enjoy the spectacular countryside drive to Okehampton.

Castle Drogo

The last castle to be built in England, the Castle Drogo is a fine piece of English architecture. Built entirely of granite, the Castle Drogo was built for millionaire Julius Drewe. The construction started in 1911 and was completed in 1930. Some of the holiday cottages existed during this period, which proves that fine English architecture applies not only to extravagant castles but also holiday cottages.