Lydford Castle and Saxon Town

Beautifully sited on the fringe of Dartmoor, Lydford boasts three defensive features.

Near the centre is a 13th century tower on a mound, built as a prison. It later became notorious for harsh punishments, with one of its inmates calling it 'the most annoious, contagious and detestable place within this realm'. To the south is an earlier Norman earthwork castle and to the north, there are Saxon town defences.

The castle is a great spot for picnics and has plenty of space for children to run and play.

Lydford lies on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and could be incorporated into a tour of historic sites in the area. Merrivale Historic Settlement is nearby, as are the many prehistoric remains of the Upper Plym Valley. Further east on the moor you'll find Hound Tor Deserted Medieval Village and the Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound. On the northern edge of Dartmoor, Okehampton Castle is another impressive ruin with plenty to explore and beautiful woodland walks nearby.