Lydford Law and Parliamentary Privilege

A free guided tour on the varied uses of the castle, including as a prison for many centuries. Join our English Heritage Curator of History for an exclusive free guided tour of this fascinating site. As part of the 2026 Heritage Open Days Festival, join us for an exclusive free guided Tour of Lydford Castle & Saxon Town. The tour will be led by our expert English Heritage Curator of History and will focus on the varied uses of the castle, including as a prison for many centuries. You will hear the story of Richard Strode MP and how his law still stands today. Beautifully sited on the fringe of Dartmoor, Lydford boasts three defensive features. Near the centre is a 13th century tower on a mound, built as a prison. It later became notorious for harsh punishments, with one of its inmates calling it 'the most annoious, contagious and detestable place within this realm'. To the south is an earlier Norman earthwork castle and to the north, there are Saxon town defences. The tour will take place on Thursday 17 September at 11:00 am and will last approx 1.5 hours. Booking is essential. Meet at the entrance gate to the castle. For more information on parking and accessibility please go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/lydford-castle-and-saxon-town/