Visitor sitting on a bench looking at the sun on the entrance tower at Castle Drogo, Devon. | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Castles and forts in Devon

From castles to hillforts, there are defences to discover across Devon including bunkers and observation look-out points from the Second World War.

Step back in time with your family this winter with a visit to Devon.

Castle Drogo

Explore the castle’s interior and discover its precious treasures and family stories. As the last castle to be built in England modern features were included for the ambitious owner.

Interior of stone building with old fashioned lights that look like medieval torches attached to wall

Compton Castle

Step inside this fortified medieval manor, complete with a Great Hall, Solar and sub solar, and learn about the lives of people that once called it home.

Wooden gate with iron detail and round iron handle

Marisco Castle on Lundy Island

Discover an island undisturbed by cars, the island encompasses a small village with an inn, Victorian church and the 13th-century Marisco Castle.

The 13th-century Marisco Castle on the island of Lundy

Discover the sites of Iron Age hillforts, Roman forts and modern defences used during the Second World War.

Iron Age fort at Killerton

Climb an extinct volcano of Dolbury Hill, home to a legendary dragon. At the top you'll find an Iron Age hillfort and views across the Exe Valley.

Three adults and a small child walk along a woodland trail at Killerton, Devon

The Civil War fort at Gallants Bower

Discover the ruins of an English Civil War fort at Gallants Bower, Little Dartmouth, or enjoy a gentle walk through Crownley Woods. Enjoy views for miles and historic monuments along the way.

Visitors walking at the Civil War fort found at Gallants Bower, Little Dartmouth, Devon

Iron Age fort at Bolberry Down

Discover a 2,500-year-old Iron Age fort on a walk to Bolt Tail. Spot the radar stations which reveal the part Bolberry Down played in protecting Britain during the Second World War.

Distant view of walkers on an accessible path at Bolberry Down, Devon

Explore a stretch of coast complete with Second World War coastal defence positions. Hidden amongst the trees you'll come across a collection of fascinating buildings, including the gun and searchlight positions.

A view of the rugged coastline at Froward Point, Devon

Iron Age hillfort at Hembury

Discover Hembury Castle which consists of an Iron Age hillfort with a later Norman motte and bailey. The name Hembury means 'high castle' and is an apt description of this great earthwork.

A woodland path scattered with autumn leaves though Holne Woods, Devon.

Martinhoe Roman fortlet

This small square Roman fortlet is situated on cliffs overlooking Heddon's Mouth. It can be reached from the coast path between Heddon Valley and Woody Bay.