Watermouth Castle
Watermouth Castle was built in 1825 by Arthur Davie Basset for his bride Harriet. The Bassets are a historical family recorded in the Domesday Book, having come to Britain with William the Conqueror.
Castle Postcard
The existing evidence of a labyrinth of tunnels and fortification for the Harbour opposite suggests a smugglers haven. The legendary Smugglers’ Tunnel is believed to have been blocked up in the latter half of the Nineteenth Century.
The family apartments, kitchen and dairy, show that around 40 domestics were employed in the running of this Victorian Estate
The last descendant of the Basset family moved from Watermouth Castle to Scotland around 1945 and the Castle then had a number of different owners. During that time there was very little change to the building and gardens, and they consequently began to deteriorate.
Then in 1977 the near derelict Castle was bought by Richard Haines and his family, who with a bit of foresight, a lot of hard work and unfaltering dedication turned it into what it has become today; one of North Devon’s premier tourist attractions with entertainment for all the family.
Today, Watermouth Castle is run by the Escapade Group, UK-based attractions specialist, and celebrators of the weird and wonderful
Discover a full family day out at one of Devon's top attractions! With an enchanting mix of children's rides and attractions, where you can race down the mighty Toboggan Run, splash through the Big River ride or fly your own aeroplane on the Junior Aviator. Explore the secret world of the pixies and fairies in the new Fairy Museum. Take on a mini golf challenge, get lost in the hedge maze or brave the Castle Dungeon. All set in 17 acres of beautiful dog-friendly landscaped gardens, overlooking stunning views of Watermouth Cove and the North Devon coastline.
Or enjoy a short break, and live like royalty in one of the newly refurbished castle apartments - with included free unlimited entry into Watermouth Castle
