Berry Pomeroy was once an ambitious construction project for a grand and luxurious Elizabethan Manor House but nowadays it is a collection of mystical ruins which has filled the imagination of its visitors, including many artists and authors.
Set in a deep and magical wooden valley is Berry Pomeroy Castle, a 15th century defensive structure for the dramatic ruins of an Elizabethan mansion. The mansion’s construction originally began in the 16th century, however it was never completed due to the lack of funds for such an ambitious project. Today, it is an eerie empty shell which has inspired chilling ghost stories - Berry Pomperoy is even promoted as one of the most haunted castles in Devon!
In the 18th century, this English Heritage site began to become a focus for romantics, authors, artists and sightseers. One of the most notable is the Gothic novel “The Castle of Berry Pomeroy” by Edward Montague and published in 1806, which spun a tale of jealousy, murder and ghostly revenge. You yourself can be inspired and captivated by this spectacular site – explore the castle with the aid of the English Heritage’s audio tour to discover some of the unique and interesting details of this castle’s past.
The castle’s grounds are a walker’s dream-come-true! Discover the woodland walks and take in the castle from a variety of perspectives by following the John Musgrave Trail. You can see the castle from the pretty nearby lake in the woods, as well as have the opportunity to spot wild flowers, birds and much more. Dogs on leads are very welcome, so you can enjoy an afternoon of strolling through both the castle and its pretty surrounding woodland area.
Feeling inspired? Have a look at our luxury cottages in and around Totnes here.
Berry Pomeroy, Totnes, Devon, TQ9 6LJ | 01803 866618 | www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/berry-pomeroy-castle
