Castle Drogo (National Trust), Chagford, Dartmoor National Park

Castle Drogo (National Trust), Chagford, Dartmoor National Park

Family attraction

The last castle to be built in England, Castle Drogo is located on a spur of land at the mouth of the magnificent Teign Gorge (National Trust) in the north east section of Dartmoor National Park. Chagford is to the south west. The pretty village Drewsteignton is nearby.

Castle Drogo was designed by Edwin Lutyens for the wealthy businessman Julius Drewe. Today, the Castle Drogo Estate, which includes the castle, its gardens and a chunk of the Teign Gorge, is managed by the National Trust.

Whilst it's an easy walk from Chagford or Drewsteignton to Castle Drogo, most people arrive by car. There are spacious car parking areas near a superb visitor centre. This visitor centre has a National Trust shop, cafe, toilets and information boards. From the visitor centre, one walks down the main drive to both the castle and its gardens. Built using cutting egde technology for the time, make sure you explore inside the castle. Note that the National Trust are undertaking essential work on the building so expect a little disruption. From the castle, walk the gardens.

Castle Drogo is located in one of the most beautiful areas in Dartmoor National Park. When visiting, plan time to walk a section of the Teign Gorge. If time is pressing, or legs are tired, wander down to Sharp Tor. If you can, follow the Hunter's Path down to Fingle Bridge before walking the Fisherman's Path back along the north bank of the River Teign to Iron Bridge and then Castle Drogo. It's one of the prettiest walks in the Park and counters the argument that Dartmoor's a bleak place. Members of the Holiday in Dartmoor team live by Castle Drogo and have walked the gorge dozens of times in all seasons. Castle Drogo and the Teign Gorge in snow is quite something.

Given its location, Castle Drogo provides exceptional views. From the castle, you'll see Dartmoor's high north plateau with the shallow domes of Hangingstone Hill and Cosdon Hill. Chagford is in the foreground. You'll also be able to look down the east flank of the moors towards Haytor Rocks. The best view, in our opinion, is into the Teign Gorge itself. The National Trust have opened up viewpoints on Mr Drewe's Path to this end.

Other National Trust properties in Dartmoor National Park include Finch Foundry (National Trust) and Lydford Gorge (National Trust). English Heritage properties include Okehampton Castle (English Heritage) and Lydford Castle (English Heritage).

In the local area, also visit Spinster's Rock, Scorhill Stone Circle and Shovel Down Stone Rows.