A motte and bailey castle dating from the 1070's which is surrounded by impressive earthworks which were extended to surround the village. A stone tower was built on the motte at the end of the 11th century and a few years later the motte was encircled by a stone wall and an outer wall was added around the bailey. In the mid 12th century the tower was strengthened and raised to form a keep. It has been left to decay since the mid 14th century, but stretches of curtain wall and two gatehouses remain.
English Heritage, open all year.
Close by, about a 10 minute walk, is the priory (see below) which was also founded in the 11th century.
Directions |
Off the A1065, 4 miles north of Swaffham |
Castle Acre, Norfolk PE32 2XD |
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