More information : (SX 41065801) Trematon Castle (NR) (remains of) (NAT).
(SX 41075795) Gateway (NR). (1)
Trematon Castle, mentioned in Domesday, passed to the Duchy of Cornwall in 1337. It became neglected in the mid 14th century and was in ruins in the 16th century. See plans. The 12th century shell keep stands on a natural hillock having traces of buildings round its internal face.
A large portion of the curtain wall, including parapet, still stands but a length to the south east was destroyed to provide a view of the estuary when the house was built within the bailey in 1807. No trace exists of the hall and chapel which originally stood in the bailey.
The gatehouse, rebuilt in the 13th century, is substantially complete although the windows have been enlarged. HHR Grade 1. (2-4)
The deer park adjoining Trematon Castle was named in 1282 but had lost its deer by 1500. (5)
Higher Lodge. Listed Grade II*. 1807-1808 Attributed by Hussey to DA Alexander and listed to the Duchy of Cornwall. A two storey structured, crenellated and is situated within the castle bailey, part of the curtain wall was demolished to provide a view. See Christopher Hussey for addition details - Country Life 3 Sept 1948. (6)
Listed by Cathcart King. (7)
Bought by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, in 1270 from the vautort family, it was bestowed on the Black Prince in 1337. At the time it was described as being well-walled, containing a kitchen, hall and two-storied chamber, the buildings being constructed on wood and plaster. There was also a chapel and gateway. Granted out between 1392-1443, it was again in royal hands from 1443, and was in ruins by Lelands time. In the early 19th century a surveyor-general of Cornwall bought the property and built a house for himself in the bailey. He pulled down a section of the wall in order to improve the view. The keep, 13th century gateway and the graeter part of the bailey wall still remain largely intact. (8)
Kenyon records 2 gunports at Trematon Castle, of the period 1360-1539. (9) |