Building a Castle
Okehampton Castle, Castle Lane, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 1JA
As part of the 2026 Heritage Open Days Festival, English Heritage are offering free workshops which will demonstrate, using replica models, how castles are built. From lime making and mixing of mortars, to preparation of timber, and making of floors, roofs, and doors. It will also explore the tradespeople who made them. You will then get the chance to have a go at building an arch and section of wall with bricks and miniature trowels. This workshop is suitable for children aged 6 and above (accompanied by an adult) and adults as well.
The ruins of Okehampton Castle cover a wooded ridge above the swift-flowing West Okement river. In the 14th century, Hugh Courtenay developed it into a palatial home. You can still explore the remains of his buildings, which stretch from the keep mound to the tall gatehouse. The last owner fell foul of Henry VIII and the castle was abandoned. Later its picturesque ruins became an inspiration for Turner and other Romantic painters.
To find out more about the castle, directions and parking please go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/okehampton-castle
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- 1000-1100, 1115-1215, 1230-1330, 1430-1530
Location & directions
Okehampton Castle, Castle Lane, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 1JA
- Contact on day:
- Charlotte Willson
- Telephone number:
- +447823966467
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Spaces are limited so booking is essential. Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult. Minimum age - 6 years.
- Booking contact name:
- Charlotte Willson
- Booking telephone number:
- +447823966467
- Booking email:
- [email protected]
- Booking website:
- https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/building-a-castle-tickets-1995072792428?aff=oddtdtcreator
- Alternative booking website:
- https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/okehampton-castle/
- Booking opens:
- 24 Jul 2026 12:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 16 Sep 2026 12:00 AM
Additional information
- Max number of people:
- 15
- Estimated duration:
- 1 hour(s) 0 minute(s)
