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Fortune rarely smiles on people the way it did on Sir Julius Drewe. In 1899 at the age of 33 he was able to retire from the business empire which had made him a millionaire and concentrate on realising his ambition to build himself a castle. Whilst researching the family history, Sir Julius discovered amongst his ancestors a Norman baron named Drogo de Teigne. This particular ancestor was a source of fascination for him and he resolved to build a castle on land once owned by de Teigne. Sir Edwin Lutyens was instructed to do the design and in 1911 the foundation stone was laid.
The site chosen for the building of the castle was an inspired choice. Perched on a lofty crag almost a thousand feet above the Teign gorge, the castle looks mysterious and darkly dramatic. Medieval in design with an interior to match, the raw granite exterior belies the beauty of the rooms, and although stark in parts, the castle has all the charm of a country house. Much of the furniture is of Spanish design but in the drawing room the accent is very much on English chintz with every comfort provided for.
There are spectacular views over stunning gardens which all year long are a riot of colourful shrubs and flowers. The formal gardens were created by Lutyens with most of the planting being carried out by garden designer George Dillistone. There are lovely lawns, yew hedges and trees have been carefully selected to provide a parade of glorious shades of green, glowing gold and deep autumnal reds. From both the castle and grounds there are views over Dartmoor and the Teign Gorge.
Interestingly, Castle Drogo was the last castle to be built in Britain and although Sir Julius lived to fulfil his dream he did not have long to enjoy it. He sadly died one year after the castle was completed.
The castle is open to public view and is well worth a visit.
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