Tucked into the lush folds of the South Hams, Fingals is a place where time slows down, and history feels close enough to touch. But the past doesn’t just linger in our old mill house walls or wander through the rose-scented gardens – it lives on all around us. Step outside Fingals and you’ll find yourself surrounded by centuries of stories, secrets, and stonework that has stood the test of time. From crumbling castles to hidden forts, we’re lucky to have some of the finest English Heritage sites in Devon right on our doorstep – all less than five miles away.
So if you’ve got a taste for tales of kings and knights, of sieges and sea battles, or simply a love of wandering through beautiful old ruins with a picnic and a dog in tow, this one’s for you. Here’s our pick of the top English Heritage sites in Devon – each one a short hop from Fingals and each one ready to spark the imagination.
Totnes Castle – 3.5 miles from Fingals
Crowning the town like a silent sentinel, Totnes Castle is one of the best-preserved examples of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle in England. Built shortly after the Norman Conquest, it has kept watch over Totnes for almost 1,000 years. Today, it’s a peaceful place with a hint of grandeur – climb the circular stone steps to the keep and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the rolling countryside and the River Dart.
It’s an ideal spot for a morning adventure before ducking into town for a coffee or browsing the independent shops on the high street. And yes – dogs are welcome on leads, so your four-legged companion can enjoy the views too.
Good to know: Open daily from April to October. Bring a blanket and snacks – the grassy bailey is perfect for a sunny picnic.
Berry Pomeroy Castle – 4.2 miles from Fingals
If you like your history with a side of ghost stories, Berry Pomeroy Castle is the place for you. Tucked away in a wooded valley just outside Totnes, this romantic ruin is steeped in mystery. Originally built by the Pomeroy family in the 15th century and later expanded by the Seymours, it was never fully completed – leaving behind a grand, eerie shell filled with whispers of the past.
It’s said to be one of the most haunted castles in England, with tales of the White Lady and the Blue Lady drifting through the stone walls. Whether or not you believe the legends, it’s a magical place for a walk – peaceful, atmospheric, and surrounded by wildflowers in spring and summer.
Top tip: Bring headphones – there’s an excellent audio guide available via the English Heritage app.
Bayard’s Cove Fort – 4.3 miles from Fingals
Stroll along the quay in Dartmouth and you’ll find Bayard’s Cove Fort tucked beside the river – a small, squat building that once played a big role in protecting the town from attack. Built in the early 16th century, this little fort would have housed heavy guns and stood ready to guard the narrow entrance to the harbour.
It’s free to visit and a wonderful place to pause on a sunny afternoon – gaze out at the water and picture galleons gliding past, or just let the salty breeze ruffle your hair. There’s a timelessness here that’s hard to beat.
Perfect pairing: Follow it up with a cream tea at one of Dartmouth’s waterside cafés and watch the boats bob in the harbour.
Dartmouth Castle – 4.8 miles from Fingals
Dartmouth Castle isn’t just a historical site – it’s a full-blown coastal adventure. Perched on the rocks at the mouth of the Dart Estuary, this fortress has defended the town for over 600 years. With its gun tower, battlements, and network of passages, it’s a brilliant day out for families, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a castle with a sea view.
Kids will love exploring the cannons and towers, while grown-ups can marvel at the engineering and dramatic setting. There’s even a lovely walk from the town centre to the castle along the South West Coast Path – or take the ferry if you’re feeling lazy or romantic.
Top tip: Time your visit for late afternoon and enjoy golden hour over the estuary. Breathtaking.
Kirkham House – 4.9 miles from Fingals
This lesser-known gem in Paignton is a perfectly preserved medieval house, dating back to the 14th century. Unlike the grand castles, Kirkham House gives you a real sense of domestic life in medieval England – small, intimate, and fascinating in its simplicity.
It’s only open on selected days (check the English Heritage website before you go), but if you can catch it, it’s well worth the detour. The interiors are beautifully restored, with traditional furnishings and a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
While you’re there: Take a short stroll down to Paignton seafront – ice cream and sea air go very nicely with history.
Make Fingals Your Historical Hideaway
One of the joys of staying at Fingals is how easily you can slip between centuries. Spend the morning wandering through a Norman castle, the afternoon exploring a haunted ruin, and the evening curled up with a book in your 19th-century mill house. And if the stories of ghosts and gallant knights leave you craving comfort, our gardens, swimming pool, and peaceful countryside views are always ready to welcome you back.
Whether you’re a history buff, a weekend explorer, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of a crumbling wall and a good tale, the English Heritage sites in Devon offer something special. And with Fingals as your base, you’re never far from the past – or a perfectly chilled glass of wine in the present.