Barnstaple Castle facts for kids
Barnstaple Castle was an old castle that once stood in the town of Barnstaple, in Devon, England. It was built in a smart spot on the western side of the town. From there, it could easily watch over the town and the important river crossings nearby.
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History of Barnstaple Castle
The first castle built here was made of wood. It was constructed in the 11th century by Geoffrey de Mowbray, who was a bishop. Houses were cleared to make space for it. Later, a person named Juhel of Totnes lived in the castle. He also started a priory (a small monastery) right outside the castle walls.
From Wood to Stone
Some records suggest that the first stone buildings of the castle were put up by Henry de Tracey. He was a strong supporter of King Stephen. Henry de Tracey was given the land and the title of Baron. However, the castle wasn't officially called a "castle proper" until 1228. That year, Henry III ordered the Sheriff of Devon to make sure the castle walls were no taller than ten feet. This order was written down in official documents called the Close Rolls.
The Castle Falls Apart
By the time the last Henry de Tracey died in 1274, the castle was already starting to fall apart. People even used stones from the castle to build other structures in the town. By 1326, the castle was mostly a ruin.
According to a travel book published in 1542 by Leland, only a few walls and the old dungeon were left. Then, in 1601, a big storm blew down the last remaining walls, as recorded by Philip Wyott.
Discoveries at the Site
Archaeologists (people who study old things) excavated the castle site in 1927 and again in 1975. The 1975 dig was very interesting! They found 105 graves at the location. A report published in 1986 showed that the items found with the graves suggested they belonged to Christians.
Today, the only part of Barnstaple Castle that remains is the tree-covered motte. A motte is the large mound of earth where the main tower of a castle once stood.
