Why was Dartmouth Castle built?

Sitting on a promontory where the River Dart meets the English Channel, the castle was begun in 1388 to protect the town and harbour of Dartmouth against French raids during the Hundred Years War. One hundred years later it was strengthened with a gun tower, the first purpose-built coastal artillery fort in Britain.

Who built Dartmouth Castle?

A high, ragged wall that forms part of Dartmouth Castle in Devon is the last remnant of a fort built in 1388 by John Hawley (c. 1350–1408), mayor, merchant, privateer and inspiration to the poet Chaucer. At that time England was at war with France, part of the long conflict known as the Hundred Years War (1337–1453).

What is the history of the River Dart?

In fact, legend has it that the River Dart played a major role in the history of Britain. It's claimed that after the Trojan War between Greece and Troy in the 12th century BC, the defeated Trojans set out to find a new home. Led by a young prince called Brutus, they reached an island (Britain) and sailed up the Dart.

Does Dartmouth have a castle?

Surrounded by sparkling waters, Dartmouth is one of the most beautifully located fortresses in England. For over 600 years, the castle has guarded the narrow entrance to the Dart Estuary and the busy, vibrant port of Dartmouth.

Who owns Kingswear Castle?

In 1987 the property was bought by the Landmark Trust, which restored the Castle and now lets it for holidays. For a short history of Kingswear Castle please click here. To read the full history album for Kingswear Castle please click here.

Dartmouth Castle, Devon, England - Castles are Amazing! Guide, History and Visiting Tips

Who owns the Royal Castle Hotel Dartmouth?

The Beginning of Ways Away Holidays

In 2019, just before the coronavirus pandemic struck the UK, Anne and Nigel sold both The Royal Castle and The Royal Seven Stars to St Austell Brewery, a fast-growing, South West based company.

Are there any paddle steamers in the UK?

About. The paddle steamer Kingswear Castle is the last remaining coal-fired paddle steamer in operation in the UK today.

How old is Dartmouth Castle?

Sitting on a promontory where the River Dart meets the English Channel, the castle was begun in 1388 to protect the town and harbour of Dartmouth against French raids during the Hundred Years War. One hundred years later it was strengthened with a gun tower, the first purpose-built coastal artillery fort in Britain.

What is the famous house in Dartmouth?

Agatha Christie's Greenway: 'The Loveliest Place in the World' 'A white Georgian house of about 1780 or 90, with woods sweeping down to the Dart below, and a lot of fine shrubs and trees – the ideal house, a dream house.

What is the oldest building in Dartmouth?

The Cherub Inn | Dartmouth.

What does Dart mean in Dartmouth?

The river's name may be Celtic meaning 'river where oak trees grow'. The banks of the lower Dart are covered in ancient woods of native oak. The East and West Dart are crossed by a number of "clapper bridges" which are big slabs of stone laid on the river bed.

How deep is the River Dart at Dartmouth?

Vessels will find depths of 5 metres at the north end of Dartmouth Harbour and in excess of 10 metres in the centre of the fairway up to Dittisham.

Why is it called River Dart?

The name of the river most likely derives from the old Celtic Devonian language, possibly meaning "river of oaks," "oak stream," or "the sacred place of oak" ... and indeed, stretches of the the Dart still twist through low hills of ancient oak woodland.

Who was Dartmouth named after?

The college was named in honor of William Legge, the Earl of Dartmouth, a friend of Wentworth's and an important benefactor. Salmon P. Chase and Robert Frost are among Dartmouth's famous graduates. Dartmouth's first classes, consisting of just four students, were held in a single log hut in Hanover in 1770.

Who built Barnard castle?

Much of the present castle was built during the 12th and early 13th centuries by the Balliol family. The clifftop inner ward shows the remains of fine domestic buildings, including a magnificent round tower of around 1200.

What is the history of Dartmouth House?

It was used as a family residence for Baron Revelstoke and Lord Dartmouth amongst others until the outbreak of war in 1914 when it was converted into a military Red Cross hospital; Dartmouth House today stands as the home of the English-Speaking Union who purchased the house in 1926.

What is Dartmouth known for?

With a celebrated liberal arts curriculum and pioneering professional schools, Dartmouth has forged a singular identity, combining its deep commitment to outstanding undergraduate liberal arts and graduate education with distinguished research and scholarship.

What are the six houses at Dartmouth?

The student body is divided into six houses: Allen House, East Wheelock House, North Park House, School House, South House, and West House. Each house has a number of bonding activities throughout the year, from weekly dinners to out-of-state ski trips. Dartmouth students are busy, so everything is 100% optional.

Who owns Dartmouth House?

The English-Speaking Union (ESU) bought Dartmouth House in 1926, and Clough Williams Ellis (of Portmeirion fame), was brought in to transform what was by then a somewhat outmoded house into the organisation's headquarters and a 'home from home' for its growing membership.

What is the oldest castle in Devon?

Rougemont Castle, also known as Exeter Castle, is the historic castle of the city of Exeter, Devon, England. It was built into the northern corner of the Roman city walls starting in or shortly after the year 1068, following Exeter's rebellion against William the Conqueror.

How old is Totnes Castle?

Watching over the scenic River Dart, Totnes Castle stands high above the town of Totnes in Devon. The castle was built 900 years ago during the Norman Conquest, almost certainly by one of William the Conqueror's commanders. It is a motte-and-bailey castle, with a later stone keep, giving sweeping views across Dartmoor.

Are dogs allowed in Dartmouth Castle?

Dogs welcome on leads. Assistance dogs welcome.

How many paddle steamers are left?

PS Waverley, a Clyde steamer built in 1947, is the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world. This ship sails a full season of cruises from ports around Britain, and sailed across the English Channel to commemorate the sinking of her predecessor of 1899 at the 1940 Battle of Dunkirk.

Where is the Medway Queen now?

Medway Queen is open to the public at Gillingham Pier on most Saturdays from February 17th 2024. ​Please visit and support this restoration project as and when you can.

What was the purpose of paddle steamers?

From the 1860s through to the early 1900s, the River Murray was thriving with the putter of paddle steamers, transporting passengers and goods throughout Riverland communities. Paddle steamers were an important connection with early European settlement and development of the Riverland.