About Devizes

Devizes originated in the twelfth century as a planned medieval town, around the Norman Castle built by Bishop Roger of Salisbury in 1102 at the boundaries of three manors, hence the name ‘Ad Divisas’ – at the boundaries.

Although the castle was destroyed after the Civil War in the seventeenth century, Devizes retains its distinctive D-shaped medieval street pattern.

Devizes received its first royal charter from Queen Matilda in 1141, granting it Borough status, which it retained for 833 years.

Together with its fascinating history, the many fine Georgian buildings, attractive market place, excellent museum and the nearby flight of twenty-nine locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal, Devizes has a great deal to attract and offer its residents and tourists alike.

There are a number of web sites covering Devizes. The links below take you to them