Lydford Castle and Saxon Town

Lydford Castle and Saxon Town

Highlight • Historical Site

Lydford Castle and Saxon Town

Hiking

4.7

(72)

Road cycling

4.9

(51)

Mountain biking

5.0

(7)

Gravel riding

5.0

(1)

Cycling

5.0

(1)

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Dartmoor National Park

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Location: Lydford, West Devon, Devon, South West England, England, United Kingdom

Tips

May 11, 2021

Hiking

Lydford is a pretty little village on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and hides, within its boundaries, several amazing features. One of these is its castle, of Norman origin that was rebuilt in the late 12th century with the tower being renovated in the 13th century.

Consistently used over the centuries and repeatedly overhauled, it eventually fell into disuse in the 19th century. Free to enter, you can enjoy its large, sloping lawn after you've had a nose about the tiny building. A perfect picnic spot, the castle sits in utter tranquillity.

Amy

June 14, 2019

Road cycling

A medieval castle on the fringes of Dartmoor National Park, Lydford Castle was built to help control revolt against Norman rule across Devon in the 11th century. The castle had a turbulent history over the centuries, passing to the Duchy of Cornwall in 1342 right up until 20th century. Today, the castle belongs to English Heritage who open it to visitors. You can also visit earthworks from the Normal fort. For more information, visit: english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/lydford-castle-and-saxon-town

Gemma Jones 🇬🇧🥾

September 18, 2019

Hiking

Lydford is a small ancient village on the banks of the river Lyd established by King Alfred late in the 9th century as a fortification to defend the country from …