Castle Drogo
Castle Drogo: The last castle built in Britain, offering a unique blend of medieval grandeur and modern comfort, set amidst stunning gardens and trail...
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
Castle Drogo: The last castle built in Britain, offering a unique blend of medieval grandeur and modern comfort, set amidst stunning gardens and trails.
"Exquisite yet homely, with stunning gardens and breathtaking views across the valley."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Castle Drogo is very dog-friendly! Explore the grounds and trails with your furry friends. :dog:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and through the castle. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Castle Interior
Main Castle Building
Discover the last castle built in Britain, a unique blend of medieval style and modern comfort. Exquisite rooms await.
Formal Gardens
Around the Castle
Stroll through beautifully maintained formal gardens offering breathtaking views across the Teign Valley.
National Trust Trails
Surrounding Estate
Embark on picturesque hikes with calm, relaxing atmospheres and stunning valley vistas. Dog-friendly paths abound.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Explore Beyond the Castle Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Castle Drogo is very dog-friendly! Explore the grounds and trails with your furry friends. :dog:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and through the castle. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe & Facilities
Convenient cafe, shop, and toilets available on-site. :coffee:
🚌 Easy Public Transport
The 173 bus stops right outside the entrance, making it accessible without a car. :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Castle Drogo is very dog-friendly! Explore the grounds and trails with your furry friends. :dog:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and through the castle. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe & Facilities
Convenient cafe, shop, and toilets available on-site. :coffee:
🚌 Easy Public Transport
The 173 bus stops right outside the entrance, making it accessible without a car. :bus:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 4 hours to fully enjoy the castle, gardens, and trails. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castle Drogo for its unique architecture, stunning gardens, and the beautiful National Trust trails surrounding it. The friendly staff and dog-friendly policy are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some guests noted that while the castle is grand, it also retains a homely feel, making it a comfortable place to explore.
"I visited here for a hike and really enjoyed it. The National Trust trails offer beautiful, picturesque views and a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
The castle is large and very well-maintained. I didn’t go inside, as it seemed to require a ticket, but I did explore the gardens, which were lovely. I also stopped by the shop, where you’ll find toilets and a café — all clean and convenient.
Getting here was easy, I took the 173 bus, which stops right outside the site. There’s also car parking available.
The site is very dog-friendly, which is a big plus. I’d recommend it for a scenic walk, a day out with your dog, or for anyone interested in exploring the castle itself."
Kalum
"The last Castle to be built in Britain. Heaven knows how much it cost to build this fabulous place from granite, and to furnish it with the finest objects from around the world. As you first enter into the cafe area, you get a sense that this place is going to be really special, and it doesn't disappoint. Room after room is exquisite, yet it has a warmth and feel that it was a homely place. The gardens and views are stunning."
Brian
"The house/castle is very interesting and well presented. Staff friendly and knowledgeable. The gardens are lovely and views simply stunning across the valley. Cafe is very good but management should consider a dog friendly indoor section like other places."
Gareth Bell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 173 bus service stops directly outside Castle Drogo, making it easily accessible for those traveling without a car.
Yes, car parking is available on-site for visitors.
You can take the 173 bus from Exeter city center, which stops right at the castle entrance.
Yes, the National Trust offers various walking trails that lead to and around Castle Drogo, offering scenic views.
While the grounds offer accessible paths, some areas of the castle may have limited accessibility due to its historic nature. It's best to check with the venue directly for specific details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required to enter the castle interior. Booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The gardens and grounds are generally accessible with a castle ticket, but it's always good to confirm current policies on their official website.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for the castle, gardens, and cafe.
National Trust members receive free entry. Check their website for any other potential discounts or family ticket options.
Tickets can usually be purchased on the day, but booking ahead online is advised to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully presented rooms showcasing the castle's history, from grand reception areas to more intimate family spaces.
Yes, knowledgeable guides are often available to offer insights into the castle's history and architecture.
Yes, Castle Drogo offers interactive areas for children and the extensive grounds provide space for them to explore.
Photography rules can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's best to check signage within the castle.
Wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time to wander through the formal gardens and explore the various National Trust walking trails.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located near the shop and toilets, offering refreshments and light meals.
Picnic spots are often available in the grounds, but check the venue's policy on bringing your own food.
The cafe typically offers a range of options, but it's advisable to check their current menu for specific dietary choices.
While the outdoor seating may be dog-friendly, an indoor dog-friendly section is something visitors have suggested.
The cafe usually serves a selection of sandwiches, cakes, hot meals, and drinks, catering to a variety of tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The formal gardens, the castle exterior with its turrets, and the panoramic views from the surrounding trails offer excellent photo opportunities.
Tripod usage may be restricted, especially during busy times. It's best to check the photography policy on the National Trust website or inquire on arrival.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check their specific drone policy.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow on the castle and gardens.
The distinctive granite architecture, turrets, and the interplay of light and shadow on the medieval-style design make for striking photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy in designated areas, or make use of the on-site cafe for refreshments. The dog-friendly nature of the grounds is also a huge plus for families with pets, allowing everyone to enjoy the visit together.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Combine your hike with a visit to the castle and its gardens for a full day of exploration. The stunning valley vistas are a constant reward, and the fresh air is invigorating. Don't forget to bring water and wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a lead where appropriate, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife. The availability of water bowls and the sheer amount of space to roam make it a truly enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Castle Drogo
The design cleverly blends imposing turrets and battlements with large windows and spacious rooms, creating a unique juxtaposition of the medieval and the modern. Visitors often remark on how exquisite yet homely the interiors feel, a testament to Lutyens' skill in balancing grandeur with livability. The attention to detail in furnishings and decor further enhances this sense of a lived-in, albeit luxurious, home.
Exploring the castle offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy during that era. From the functional kitchens to the elegant reception rooms, each space tells a story. The sheer scale of the project, from quarrying the granite to furnishing the vast interiors, is awe-inspiring and a key reason why many find Castle Drogo so fascinating.
Gardens and Grounds: A Natural Escape
Beyond the formal areas, the estate extends into the picturesque Teign Valley, crisscrossed by National Trust trails. These walking routes are a highlight for many visitors, praised for their calm, relaxing atmosphere and the picturesque views they unveil. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more invigorating hike, the network of paths caters to various fitness levels.
Dog owners will be particularly pleased to know that Castle Drogo is very dog-friendly, with many of the trails being perfect for a canine adventure. The combination of well-kept gardens and expansive natural landscapes makes the grounds a versatile destination for a leisurely day out, a scenic hike, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit