An illustrated talk by Stewart Brown, Consultant archaeologist
Berry Pomeroy Castle dates from the late 15th century and was one of the last castles built in England. It was set within an existing deer park and was more hunting lodge than castle in the military sense. The castle was acquired by Protector Somerset in 1547. His son Sir Edward Seymour came to live there c.1560 and transformed the living quarters into a four-storeyed mansion, whilst keeping the castle’s defensive wall and gatehouse. His grandson, another Edward, began an ambitious scheme c.1600 to add a further two ranges with wide terraces looking out over the valley below, but sadly these were never completed, and the unfinished house remained a ‘white elephant’. The castle was abandoned in the late 17th century, soon after the Seymour family moved to another of their residences which was more up-to-date and suitable, at Maiden Bradley in Wiltshire.
Stewart Brown has been an independent archaeological contractor since 1988, beginning his career with the Exeter Museums’ Archaeological Field Unit (1972-9), before attaining a scholarship to attend the Oxford `In Service Training Scheme’ run jointly by Oxford University and the archaeological branch of what is now Historic England. Stewart has authored a number of monographs and articles on archaeology in Devon, on sites including Buckfast Abbey, Totnes Castle and Exeter Cathedral as well as many smaller house and farm sites across the county.
Booking is advisable and places will b allocated on a first come, first served basis. Tickets are £5 and available in advance from the DRA office.
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