To spot Rougemont Castle, look for the striking, tall stone structure just ahead-its rugged red walls stand out against the greenery, with a large double-arched entrance that’s partly covered in moss. The gatehouse looks ancient, almost like a set from a medieval adventure film, and if you spot the grand gate with battlements to your right, you’re definitely in the right place. It’s a little bit of history sandwiched right between city parks and modern life.
Now, let’s imagine you’re standing here almost a thousand years ago. Rougemont Castle, or Exeter Castle, is looming above you, its red stone glowing in the sun-yes, that color comes from the earth itself, dug right from under Exeter! It was built in a hurry after Exeter tried to stand up to William the Conqueror in 1068. William wasn’t exactly in a good mood after the city said no to extra taxes, so once he won the siege, he made sure this fortress would watch over Exeter for good.
Listen as the wind whistles through the ancient arches above you. Back in the day, this castle was a serious stronghold, with its thick walls and a deep ditch outside, just to make sure you really wanted to pay a visit! King Stephen even tried to take it down with a three-month siege in 1136-but the castle didn’t budge.
Now, take a look at the gatehouse in front of you. Those funny windows and blocky corners? They’re a mix of Anglo-Saxon and early Norman design, built by English masons right under the watchful eyes of their new conquerors. There’s even a legend that some of these stones show early repair marks from an attack while it was still unfinished-talk about a rough start!
And here’s a fun fact: Shakespeare himself mentions Rougemont Castle in Richard III, so you’re standing in the middle of both real drama and stage drama. Just beware of witches-they were once tried here in the days when people still believed magic could be deadly.
Today, you’ll sometimes hear laughter and music where once you’d have heard the clanging of swords and marching boots. The castle’s been everything from a court to a party venue, and it’s aiming to become the Covent Garden of the Southwest. Not too shabby for an old Norman stronghold! Soak in the atmosphere-imagine knights, rebels, judges, and maybe even a ghost or two, all crowding these old red walls.
Interested in a deeper dive into the construction and early history, the siege of 1136 and after or the 17th to 20th centuries? Join me in the chat section for an insightful conversation.
