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Castle Mound
Map Location
Castle Mound, also known as Barnstaple Castle, is an important historical site located in the town of Barnstaple, North Devon. Though little of the castle remains today except for the earthworks and a large mound, its history reflects Barnstaple’s significance in medieval England.
Early History and Construction
The exact origins of Barnstaple Castle are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been built shortly after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The castle was likely established by Geoffrey de Mowbray, the Bishop of Coutances, one of William the Conqueror’s key supporters. Like many Norman castles built during this period, Barnstaple Castle was constructed to assert control over the local population and defend the town, which was already an important Saxon settlement and trading hub.
The castle was a motte-and-bailey design, typical of early Norman fortifications. The “motte” was a large mound of earth topped by a wooden or stone keep, and the “bailey” was an enclosed courtyard at the base of the mound, surrounded by defensive walls. Barnstaple’s motte, the Castle Mound that survives today, was the site of the keep, which would have been a formidable structure overlooking the town and the River Taw.
Medieval Period and Decline
During the 12th century, Barnstaple Castle was owned by the Tracy family. In the early part of this century, Henry de Tracy made significant improvements to the castle, replacing its wooden defenses with stone. Under his ownership, Barnstaple Castle became a prominent seat of local power, reflecting Barnstaple’s status as a borough with economic and strategic importance.
However, by the mid-13th century, the castle had begun to decline. Historical records show that in 1228, the castle was partially dismantled on the orders of King Henry III, who ordered the walls to be reduced in height, likely as a response to a period of political unrest. By 1274, the castle was described as being in ruins. The declining importance of Barnstaple as a military stronghold, combined with the expense of maintaining the castle, led to its gradual abandonment.
Later Use and Excavations
By the 14th century, much of Barnstaple Castle had fallen into disrepair. Stone from the castle was likely used in the construction of other buildings in the town, a common fate for many disused medieval structures. The site remained of interest throughout later centuries, though it was not rebuilt or restored.
The earthworks and the Castle Mound, the most visible remnants of the castle, survived largely intact. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, archaeological investigations uncovered traces of the original stone structure, though the site had been heavily altered over time. Today, the Castle Mound is a public park, offering views over Barnstaple and providing a tangible link to the town’s medieval past.
Modern-Day Importance
Although Barnstaple Castle no longer stands, the Castle Mound is an important historical landmark that reflects the town’s Norman heritage. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, meaning it is protected for its historical significance. The site serves as a reminder of Barnstaple’s strategic importance during the medieval period and the influence of the Norman conquest on the development of English towns.
Visitors to the Castle Mound can still explore the site, which provides a peaceful green space in the heart of Barnstaple. The remaining earthworks offer insight into the scale of the original fortification, and its elevated position shows why the Normans chose this location for defense. While the castle itself may be gone, the Castle Mound remains a symbol of Barnstaple’s long and varied history, from its Saxon origins to its role as a key Norman stronghold in North Devon.