What is recorded here

Belbury Castle is an Iron Age hillfort on the West Hills above Ottery St Mary, reduced to a shallow oval scar in Castle Field. A 1061 charter named the area Bigulfesburgh, linking the land to human memory before the earthworks faded. The fort likely guarded the Otter valley, while later ploughing and road building erased most of its defences. What remains is a quiet warning that even strongholds can be levelled into ordinary farmland.

The National Heritage List for England records Belbury Castle as a scheduled monument. The saved point comes from the centre supplied by the official record. Listing does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.

Belbury Castle was built in the 13th century by the de Warenne family, who were prominent landowners in southern England. It is remembered as an example of early medieval military architecture and for its historical association with the baronial opposition to King John.

The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.