Totnes Castle
Totnes Castle is located in the town of Totnes in Devonshire, England. The Norman motte and bailey style castle was built in the 14thcentury on the Dart River upon a large hill that overlooks the town and three valleys. There was an earlier 11thcentury structure on the site made of wood, which likely held a palisade and a tower. Juhel of Totnes, who was one of William the Conqueror’s lieutenants, built the 11th century structure. The castle changed hands and the feudal barony of Totnes was given to Roger de Nonant. Nonant’s family held the castle for several generations. The stone keep and walls were built by owner, William de Braose, 3rdLord of Bramber. By 1326, the castle had fallen into ruin under ownership of the de la Zouch family and a royal order was given to repair the fortifications. The castle was repaired with Devonian limestone and red sandstone, a new stable was constructed at this time, and a constable was appointed. Totnes Castle was used as a garrison during the Civil War, but it was evacuated before the arrival of Parliamentary forces and saw no action. Unfortunately, the castle fell into ruin again. Totnes Castle is open to the public and has a castle shop.
