Skip to content
Whitesheet Hill & Mere Down

Mere Castle

In the near distance, you can see the remains of Mere Castle, an enclosure castle, the mound of which was formed by the alteration of the eastern end of a chalk ridge known as Long Hill.

Mere Castle today – photo credit: Charles Sainsbury-Plaice

History of Mere Castle

Mere Castle was built by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, in 1253. Richard’s son Edmund inherited the property, but on his death, it was taken back by the Crown. Edward II gave it to his royal favourite, Piers Gaveston, whom he made Earl of Cornwall.

Edward II and Gaveston fell from power in 1327 and John, Edward’s second son, took possession as the new Earl of Cornwall. Edward III then reacquired the castle, which became a permanent part of the Duchy of Cornwall.

It originally included six towers, a hall, inner and outer gates, a well and a chapel. It was repaired in 1300 after which it fell into decay and was finally demolished between 1780 and 1790, the materials from the castle being sold for building purposes.

Respect everyone

  • Leave gates as you find them.
  • Do not block access to gateways when parking.
  • Be polite to others and share the space.

Protect the environment

  • Take your litter away with you – this includes dog poo!
  • Keep dogs under control and in sight.
  • Care for nature and don’t cause any disturbance.
  • Do not light fires or BBQs.