Berry Pomeroy

Berry Pomeroy is a small village in South Devon, most famous for its Berry Pomeroy Castle, a “romantic ruin” consisting of a 15th-century medieval fortress with a large, unfinished Elizabethan mansion nestled inside its walls. Managed by English Heritage, it is widely reputed to be one of the most haunted castles in Britain.

Where It Is
Location: The castle is tucked away in a deep, wooded valley approximately one mile north-east of Berry Pomeroy village and about 2.5 miles east of the town of Totnes.
Access: It is best reached by car (postcode TQ9 6LJ) via a narrow single-track road, or by a 10-minute taxi ride from Totnes railway station.

What to Do and See
Immersive Audio Tour: Highly recommended for hearing “blood-curdling” ghost stories—specifically of the White Lady and Blue Lady—alongside the history of the Pomeroy and Seymour families.
Medieval Gatehouse: Climb the steps to see rare 15th-century wall paintings depicting the Adoration of the Magi.
Ruined Mansion: Explore the shell of the Seymour family’s palatial mansion, which was intended to be the grandest in Devon before being abandoned due to lack of funds.
Woodland Walks: Enjoy scenic trails around the castle and nearby Gatcombe Brook, ideal for spotting wildlife and viewing the ruins from the valley below.
Castle Café: Located just outside the castle, it offers traditional British fare like cream teas and hot lunches.

Who Should Go and When
Who: It is ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and ghost hunters. It is also family-friendly with wide grassy areas for children, though the steep stairs and muddy woodland paths may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
When:
Spring/Summer: Open daily from 10:00 to 17:00.
Autumn/Winter: Typically open weekends only, from 10:00 to 16:00.
Tip: Visit around Halloween for the full eerie experience, or on sunny days to enjoy the woodland walks.

What Makes It Special
The castle’s unique “castle within a castle” architecture marks it as one of the last personal fortresses built in England. Its status as an “unfinished” masterpiece creates a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic that has attracted artists and sightseers for centuries.