
Castle Drogo
England's last castle, a 20th-century marvel by Lutyens, boasting dramatic granite architecture and stunning terraced gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Castle Drogo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
England's last castle, a 20th-century marvel by Lutyens, boasting dramatic granite architecture and stunning terraced gardens.
"A truly unique castle experience, blending medieval grandeur with modern design and breathtaking gardens."

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry by booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends and holidays. Avoid queues!
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Lots of walking and stairs! Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the castle and gardens.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Hall
Interior
Marvel at the imposing scale and intricate details of this medieval-inspired heart of the castle.

The Gardens
Exterior
Wander through beautifully landscaped terraces, offering stunning views and tranquil spots.

The Chapel
Interior
Discover a serene and beautifully preserved space, offering a glimpse into the castle's spiritual side.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry by booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends and holidays. Avoid queues!
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Lots of walking and stairs! Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the castle and gardens.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities with the castle backdrop.
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a refreshment at the cafe after your tour. Perfect for a mid-visit rest.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry by booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends and holidays. Avoid queues!
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Lots of walking and stairs! Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the castle and gardens.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities with the castle backdrop.
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a refreshment at the cafe after your tour. Perfect for a mid-visit rest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castle Drogo for its unique status as the last castle built in England and its impressive Lutyens-designed architecture. The beautiful terraced gardens are a major highlight, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape. While the castle's interior is fascinating, some find it less grand than older castles, and accessibility can be a challenge due to its historic nature.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castle Drogo is located near Drewsteignton, Devon. Use the postcode EX6 6PB for GPS. There is ample parking available on-site, though it can fill up during peak times. Consider arriving early if driving.
Public transport options are limited. The nearest train station is Exeter St Davids, from where you would need to take a bus or taxi. It's often easier to drive or arrange a taxi from nearby towns.
Castle Drogo offers a dedicated car park for visitors. It's usually free for National Trust members. Be aware that it can get busy, so arriving early is advised, especially during peak seasons.
Cycling routes are available in the surrounding Dartmoor National Park. There are usually bike racks available at the castle for visitors arriving by bicycle.
While the grounds have some accessible paths, the castle itself has many stairs and is not fully accessible. Check the National Trust website for detailed accessibility information before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends and during school holidays, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment. This is a common piece of advice from visitors.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Trust website for Castle Drogo for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit, as they can change.
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and families. National Trust members get free entry. Check the National Trust website for current admission fees and any special offers.
Yes, guided tours are often available and provide fascinating insights into the castle's history and architecture. Check the schedule upon arrival or on the National Trust website.
Typically, garden-only tickets are not offered separately. Your admission ticket grants access to both the castle and the gardens. It's worth confirming this on their website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the castle and its gardens. If you plan to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a longer walk around the estate, allow for more time.
Dogs are generally welcome in the gardens and grounds on leads, but are usually not permitted inside the castle itself. Always check the latest dog policy on the National Trust website.
Facilities typically include a cafe, gift shop, and toilets. There are also picnic areas available in the grounds for visitors who wish to bring their own food.
Wi-Fi availability can be spotty within the castle and grounds. It's advisable not to rely on it for essential tasks and to download any necessary information beforehand.
Children can enjoy exploring the castle's nooks and crannies, and there are often family-friendly trails or activities available in the gardens. The open spaces are great for running around.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted inside the castle for personal use, but flash photography is often prohibited to protect the interiors. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
The gardens offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the castle's exterior against the landscape. The Grand Hall and Chapel interiors also provide striking photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Commercial photography or filming usually requires prior permission from the National Trust. Contact their press or media team well in advance if you plan a professional shoot.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the gardens provide shade and interesting light patterns.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as while there's a cafe, having your own supplies can be helpful for younger children. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover. The open spaces in the gardens are perfect for a picnic, making it a full day out for the family.
🚶♀️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Consider joining a guided tour if available, as these often delve deeper into the castle's construction and the lives of its inhabitants. The gardens, designed by Gertrude Jekyll, also offer a fascinating study in early 20th-century garden design, complementing the castle's architectural narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Castle Drogo
Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and ambition of the project, especially considering its relatively recent construction. The integration of modern amenities within such a traditional aesthetic is a key talking point. Exploring the various rooms, from the grand hall to the more intimate spaces, offers a fascinating insight into the vision of both the owner and the architect. It’s a place where history feels both ancient and surprisingly contemporary.
Key features to look out for include the dramatic use of granite, the impressive scale of the main hall, and the clever architectural details that Lutyens incorporated. The castle’s construction was a significant undertaking, and understanding its context as the 'last castle' adds to its allure for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Exploring the Enchanting Drogo Gardens
The gardens are divided into distinct areas, each with its own character. The upper terraces offer formal planting and seating areas, perfect for enjoying the castle's presence. As you descend, you'll find more informal planting, including a rose garden and a kitchen garden, showcasing a variety of plants and seasonal blooms. The wilder areas at the bottom of the valley provide a more naturalistic setting, with woodland walks and the sound of the river.
Many visitors highlight the seasonal beauty of the gardens, with different areas coming into their own throughout the year. The combination of Lutyens' architectural vision for the castle and Jekyll's horticultural expertise in the gardens creates a harmonious and breathtaking landscape. It’s a place to relax, reflect, and appreciate the artistry of landscape design.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit