Isca Dumnoniorum was the Roman's major garrison town on the South Western frontier of the province of Brittania. Established c. 50 A.D. it was home to the 5000 strong Second Legion. The Second Legion remained for 25 years in modern day Exeter . In around 80 A.D. the garrison was converted to a civilian settlement. Devon & Cornwall were seen as inhospitable areas to occupy by the Romans and as we shall see, throughout history they remained maverick states. We seek out the remains of Roman influence and civilisation.. .more..

Exeter Cathedral

The Vikings attacked and captured "Exanceaster" in 876 A.D.and held the city for a year, until King Alfred drove them out. They besieged the city again in 894 A.D. unsuccessfully, but were successful in occupying it again in 1001 A.D. This was the beginning of the end for a period of Viking raiding that had plagued Devon & Cornwall for more than a century. more...

Isca - Roman

William the Conqueror
in Devon

Viking Raids

Plympton Castle

Okehampton Castle

Launceston Castle

Brent Tor Church

William I (the Conqueror) returned to Normandy in 1067 following the successful Battle of Hastings and the death of King Harold Godwinson. Harold's mother Gytha, fled to Exeter and while William was away, fortified the city in revolt against the new King. There were many revolts to deal with upon William's return to England, but he immediately headed to Exeter to face Gytha and Harold's sons . A midwinter march and 18 day siege cost many lives before Gytha and her family fled. A castle was built to prevent further revolt and we are able to inspect Rougemont Castle and the oldest stone arch in England. But more revolts in the area were awaiting the centuries . .more..