ダートムーアの洞窟・トップ9

The "last castle in England" was only completed in 1930. It's something completely different and although it's not (yet) picturesquely dilapidated, it offers many interesting insights into life between the wars. Lovingly looked after by the National Trust and definitely worth a visit.

Excellent pizza and undercover, outdoor seating at the Castle Inn! No issues taking our bikes into the garden.

High up in Hembury Woods is Hembury Castle. Not just an Iron Age Hillfort but also a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle which was built into the fort. It is known locally as Danes Camp, perhaps due to a legendary viking invasion. The Danes sailed up the River Dart and attacked the hillfort, capturing both the fort and the women who lived there. When the vikings fell into a slumber, they were killed by the women and the danes ousted. It is a great place to visit with children to combine history with nature. There is plenty of carparking at Hembury Woods and short walks up to the castle or longer tracing the River Dart.

Cool historic spot on Dartmoor.

It is definitely worth having a stroll around these ancient ruins. While perhaps less impressive than nearby Grimspound, they are less well-known and, therefore, less busy. Today Challacombe is well known for the farm's rewilding efforts.

Lydford is a pretty little village on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and hides, within its boundaries, several amazing features. One of these is its castle, of Norman origin that was rebuilt in the late 12th century with the tower being renovated in the 13th century. Consistently used over the centuries and repeatedly overhauled, it eventually fell into disuse in the 19th century. Free to enter, you can enjoy its large, sloping lawn after you've had a nose about the tiny building. A perfect picnic spot, the castle sits in utter tranquillity.

This is basically a what's left of some buildings in someone's back garden.

Odd 1920s interpretation of a castle.