Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo stands on a commanding spur of rock above the Teign Gorge on the north-eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park — and holds the remarkable distinction of being the last castle ever built in England. Commissioned by self-made millionaire Julius Drewe and designed by celebrated architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, construction spanned 1911 to 1930. The result is a granite masterpiece that manages to feel simultaneously ancient and thoroughly modern. The castle's stark exterior — with its battlemented parapets, massive entrance tower with twin octagonal turrets, and genuine working portcullis — belies surprisingly comfortable and elegant interiors. Rooms reflect different historical periods, from the Norman-inspired Entrance Hall and Library to the Georgian-feeling Drawing Room, unified by Lutyens's masterly use of a limited palette. A cutting-edge Edwardian kitchen, working telephones and hydroelectric power from the valley below were innovations ahead of their time. Surrounding the castle is a garden of great character, designed by Lutyens with input from planting designers Gertrude Jekyll and George Dillistone. Circular lawns, herbaceous borders, a rhododendron garden and tranquil Chapel Garden provide seasonal colour and peaceful spaces to pause. Below the castle, the Teign Gorge offers miles of spectacular walking. The Hunter's Path runs along the gorge rim with sweeping views over Dartmoor's high plateau, then drops through ancient woodland to Fingle Bridge — one of Dartmoor's most celebrated riverside walks. The gorge is National Trust land and accessible to all. A visitor centre, café, shop and children's play areas complete the offer.