The site lies on the southern side of the historic settlement of Great Torrington, on the northern side of the river Torridge valley. 

Part of the Torrington Castle site is now a public car park, known as Barley Grove, part lies under a walled bowling green, used by Great Torrington Bowling Club. 

Link to location.

There were multiple constructions on the site from 1090. This featured phases of purposefully destruction, rebuilding and ruin. 

A military timber motte and bailey in the 12th century. In the 13th century, the castle and its walls were rebuilt in stone.

Later the site was reused in many ways, such as the 15th century school and a 17th century cavalry camp.

Many famous names were associated with the castle, such as the Fitzrobert de Torinton, de Sully, de Merton, de Tremenet, de Umfraville, FitzWilliam, de Tracey and de Bryane families. 

Key individuals include Brictric, Odo Fitz Gamelin, Margaret Beaufort and the Baron of Barnstaple, Henry de Tracey.