Top 4 Castles around Clayhidon
Best castles around Clayhidon are situated within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, an area characterized by its rolling hills and historical significance. While Clayhidon itself features historical earthworks like Jacob's City, the region is notable for its medieval fortifications. These sites offer insights into the area's past, from Iron Age settlements to Norman and later medieval structures. The landscape provides a backdrop for exploring these historical landmarks.
Best castles around Clayhidon
- The most popular castles is Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, a castle that was originally an Iron Age hill fort before a Norman motte-and-bailey castle was built on the site. It features extensive earthworks now covered in trees, offering views through the trunks.
- Another must-see spot is St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle, a historical site that includes a medieval castle from the 14th century. This location provides a glimpse into the region's history, including its role during the English Civil War.
- Visitors also love Taunton Castle, a historical site in the heart of Taunton. This Grade I-listed building has served as a court of law and now houses a museum.
- Clayhidon is known for its Iron Age hill forts, Norman motte-and-bailey castles, and medieval fortifications. These sites offer a variety of historical periods to explore, from ancient earthworks to later castle remains.
- The castles around Clayhidon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 50 upvotes and 14 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort
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Now it's a really fascinating place; the old earth works are covered in trees with amazing views between the trunks. Managed by Forestry England.
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St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle
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Taunton Castle
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Today, you can visit the castle and its fascinating museum. You'll also find a cafe there because no English castle is complete without a slice of cake.
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Castle Neroche
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Now it's a really fascinating place; the old earth works are covered in trees with amazing views between the trunks. Managed by Forestry England.
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Hemyock Castle
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The remains of a moated, rare late 14th century castle surround a much older manor house. During the 17th century English Civil War, the castle was garrisoned for Parliament. The Royalists attacked twice, eventually besieging and capturing Hemyock Castle. Afterwards, the castle was slighted (destroyed). Subsequently the site evolved to become a farm, and later a private home. Former outbuildings have also been converted into homes
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Castle Neroche is a significant historical site in Somerset, England, located on the northern escarpment of the Blackdown Hills. It is not a standing stone castle today, but rather a complex of impressive earthworks that reveal a long history of use.
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Norman castle The earthworks at the site are larger than would normally be found in a castle from the Norman period, raising speculation that it reused previously developed features. The castle was probably built by Robert, Count of Mortain in the 11th century. Archaeological evidence suggests it was built in several stages. During the first a rampart enclosing 7.5 acres (3.0 ha) was built. Soon after the Norman Conquest a smaller inner ringwork was constructed. The site was later converted into a motte and bailey, with a corner of the 20 feet (6.1 m) high motte serving as a barbican. By the early 12th century the castle was no longer in regular use. However, its use was resumed during The Anarchy, a period of civil war and unsettled government during a succession dispute between the supporters of King Stephen (1135–1154) and those of his cousin, the Empress Matilda. Continued use in the later 12th century may have been by administrators of the surrounding royal forest as a base for operations against poachers.
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Castle Neroche is a Norman motte-and-bailey castle on the site of an earlier hill fort in the parish of Curland, near Staple Fitzpaine, Somerset, England. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The origin of the term Neroche is believed to be a contraction of the Old English words nierra and rechich or rachich for Rache, a type of hunting-dog used in Britain in the Middle Ages, giving a meaning of the camp where hunting dogs were kept. This also gives the site its alternative name of Castle Rache. Iron Age The reason for the construction of Iron Age hill forts has been a subject of debate. It has been argued that they could have been military sites constructed in response to invasion from continental Europe, sites built by invaders, or a military reaction to social tensions caused by an increasing population and consequent pressure on agriculture. The dominant view since the 1960s has been that the increasing use of iron led to social changes in Britain. Deposits of iron ore were separated from the sources of tin and copper necessary to make bronze, and as a result trading patterns shifted and the old elites lost their economic and social status. Archaeologist Barry Cunliffe believes that population increase played a role and has stated "[the forts] provided defensive possibilities for the community at those times when the stress [of an increasing population] burst out into open warfare. But I wouldn't see them as having been built because there was a state of war. They would be functional as defensive strongholds when there were tensions and undoubtedly some of them were attacked and destroyed, but this was not the only, or even the most significant, factor in their construction.
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The Museum cafe is well worth a visit for the cheese scone alone.
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St Mary’s church Hemyock appeared on the show”Blind Date” in 2008 The church can be traced back to 1120 and Hemyock castle adjacent was a focal point of clashes during the civil war fought between Cromwell and his parliamentarians (Roundheads) and the the royalists under the King Charles 1.
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Steeped in civil war history Hemyock castle the battlefield for Cromwell parliamentarians and royalists. Open on bank holidays between Easter and september £1 entry fee….worth a visit😀
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical sites can I explore around Clayhidon?
The Clayhidon area, nestled within the Blackdown Hills, offers a rich tapestry of historical sites. You can discover ancient earthworks like Jacob's City, remnants of a deserted medieval settlement. The region is also home to Iron Age hill forts, Norman motte-and-bailey castles, and medieval fortifications. Notable examples include Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort and the 14th-century Hemyock Castle.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Clayhidon?
Yes, several castles and historical sites in the area are suitable for families. Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort offers extensive earthworks to explore within a forested setting. Hemyock Castle, with its visible remains of towers, walls, and a moat, often has special open days and an interpretation centre. Taunton Castle, located in the heart of Taunton, houses a museum that can be engaging for all ages.
What is the historical significance of Hemyock Castle?
Hemyock Castle is a significant 14th-century medieval castle, granted a licence to crenellate in 1380. It played a crucial role during the English Civil War, serving as a Parliamentarian garrison and a prison for Royalists. After being captured and recaptured, it was eventually 'slighted' (made indefensible) by order of King Charles II. Today, its substantial remains, including the gatehouse and parts of its towers, offer a rare glimpse into a non-royal castle's history.
When is the best time to visit Hemyock Castle?
Hemyock Castle is typically open to the public on Bank Holiday Mondays between Easter and September. These specific open days allow visitors to explore the remains of its fortifications, moat, and grounds, and visit its display areas. It's advisable to check their official website for exact dates and times before planning your visit.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Clayhidon?
The Blackdown Hills, where these castles are located, offer numerous outdoor activities. You can find a variety of routes for mountain biking, running, and hiking. For example, there are easy hikes around Hemyock Village Pump, moderate MTB trails like the Staple Hill Trail, and more challenging running routes to Culmstock Beacon Viewpoint. You can explore more options on the MTB Trails around Clayhidon, Running Trails around Clayhidon, and Easy hikes around Clayhidon guide pages.
Are there any castles with good viewpoints or natural features nearby?
Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort is set within a forest and offers views through the tree trunks from its extensive earthworks. The entire region is part of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and natural landscapes for your explorations.
What facilities are available at Taunton Castle?
Taunton Castle, a Grade I-listed building, houses a fascinating museum that showcases the region's history. It also features a cafe, making it a convenient stop for refreshments during your visit to Taunton.
Can I find cafes or pubs near the castles in the Clayhidon area?
Yes, the villages surrounding the castles offer options for refreshments. Hemyock, for instance, has a pub that has been established since 1740, along with a small shop. Taunton Castle itself has a cafe. For other locations, local villages like Hemyock and Taunton provide amenities.
Are the castles around Clayhidon accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Accessibility varies by site. Much of the site at Hemyock Castle is fairly level, which can accommodate wheelchairs and pushchairs during its open days. For other sites like Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, which involves earthworks and forest trails, accessibility might be more limited. It's always best to check specific site details if accessibility is a primary concern.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this region?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. They enjoy exploring the ancient earthworks and ruins, imagining the past, and taking in the scenic views offered by the Blackdown Hills. The unique historical context, from Iron Age settlements to Civil War events, combined with the opportunity for outdoor activities, makes these sites particularly appealing. The komoot community has shared over 14 photos and given more than 50 upvotes to these highlights.
Are there any hidden gem historical sites near Clayhidon besides the main castles?
While not a traditional castle, the earthworks of Jacob's City near Clayhidon are a fascinating 'hidden gem.' These are remnants of a deserted medieval and post-medieval settlement, offering a different perspective on the region's history beyond fortified structures. Exploring these sites provides a unique insight into the daily lives of past inhabitants.
Can I bring my dog to the castle grounds or nearby trails?
Many outdoor areas in the Blackdown Hills are dog-friendly, especially the numerous hiking and walking trails. For specific castle grounds, policies may vary. For example, Castle Neroche Iron Age Hill Fort, managed by Forestry England, is generally dog-friendly. It's recommended to check individual site rules for Hemyock Castle and Taunton Castle, as private residences or museums may have restrictions. Always keep dogs on a lead and clean up after them.
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