Exeter Cathedral; acknowledged as the most complete example of "Decorated Gothic" architecture with the longest continuous medieval stone vault in the world with stunning "bosses".

/ Exeter Cathedral/

When you enter Exeter Cathedral it is easy too see why thousands of people visit it every year. In front of you runs the longest, continuous medieval stone vault in the world, which, can only be described as awesome. Where each rib of the tierceron vaulting meets, there is a beautifully carved boss. Many of the bosses are of a bright gold colour and most of the bosses are highly coloured, illustrating that medieval churches were once dominated by vibrant colours. Gothic architecture was devised to allow in as much light as possible and this cathedral certainly meets that goal. Beautiful, gothic windows adorn the building and there are many fascinating features to search for such as misericords, green men and an early 15th century medieval clock.

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Totnes Castle; One of the earliest and best preserved examples of a Norman Motte and Bailey in the country.

/ Totnes Castle/

Totnes is a beautiful example of an early, motte and bailey castle that, by the end of the 13th century, morphed into a shell keep castle. It was a vital part of the Norman policy of controlling the troublesome English people, especially people living in the South-West. Totnes was one of the earliest types of castle and was built at speed in 1068 being part of William the Conqueror’ plans to suppress rebellious Anglo-saxons. It is a good example of a shell keep and, with visits to other types of castles, will create a great timeline of the development of castles culminating in Caernarvon Castle, Beaumaris Castle and Tudor castles such as at Pendennis and Southsea. Standing on top of the shell keep, gives fantastic 360 degree views of the surrounding area and therefore reasons for its location. Walking around the bailey makes it easy to see the development of the dry moat and ditches as the first form of defence.

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