‘Castle Neroche’
For all who may be interested. I am showing detail of a very important place in our Trivett family history, ‘Castle Neroche’
The original site which is on the Blackdown Hills in Somerset was a Hill Fort dating between 1500 and 2600 years.
After the Norman invasion 1066 William the Conqueror still had a problem with Saxons causing trouble in the West country supposedly controlled by Harolds’ mother in Exeter. William handed the problem over to his half brother the Count of Mortain who was known to be a ruthless person.
A boundary of many Castles were built ie Bridgwater, Dunster etc. Castle Neroche was adapted for this purpose. It is a massive site of the usual motte bailey construction with a sheer drop to south western side. Something that would be suicidal to attack. It has extensive views to the Quantocks and the Vale of Taunton. Any enemy approaching would have easily been seen.
It was a short time before the Southwest of Engand was finally conquered. In fact within twenty years the Castle Neroche became redundant.
The importance of this site and the fighting in the West country to me is the fact that this must be the reason why the Trivett’s were based in Bridgwater 1066.
Well worth a visit. There is a very good walk around it.
P.S. The site of the Castle Neroche was officially opened on the 10th May 2008.
John Trivett
