Castle Acre Castle

A Norman Stronghold in the Norfolk Landscape

Castle Acre Castle stands as one of England’s finest surviving motte-and-bailey castles, a testament to Norman power in East Anglia. Founded soon after the Battle of Hastings by William de Warenne, a close ally of William the Conqueror, the castle was built to control a strategic crossing of the River Nar and the nearby Peddars Way. Its massive earthworks – a high motte and two well-defined baileys – remain clearly visible, giving a vivid sense of how this fortress once dominated the surrounding countryside. Though only stone walls and ramparts survive today, the layout is remarkably intact, allowing visitors to walk through the outer and inner baileys and imagine the timber and stone buildings that once stood here.

Layers of History and Noble Ownership

The castle’s story spans centuries of English history. The de Warenne family held it for generations, reinforcing its defences during the civil war known as the Anarchy. Later, it passed through some of England’s most prominent figures: Thomas Howard, 4th Duke of Norfolk; Thomas Cecil, 1st Earl of Exeter; and the great jurist Sir Edward Coke, whose family still owns the estate. By the 16th century the castle was largely in ruins, but its romantic remains attracted visitors and antiquarians. In the 20th century, the site was taken into state care and is now managed by English Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Exploring the Ruins and the Wider Site

Today, visitors can freely explore the castle grounds during daylight hours, walking along bark-chipped paths and grassy areas around the baileys. The outer bailey is largely level and step-free, while the inner bailey and motte are reached by long flights of steps, offering panoramic views across the Nar valley. Nearby, the impressive remains of Castle Acre Priory and the village’s medieval earthworks and gatehouses complete the picture of a rare, intact Norman planned settlement. The village itself, with its church and historic buildings, enhances the sense of stepping back into the medieval world.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Castle Acre Castle has a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, far from the bustle of major tourist sites. It’s a place to wander at your own pace, to trace the lines of ditches and banks, and to imagine the lives of the Norman lords, monks, and villagers who once shaped this landscape. The site is family-friendly, though paths can be uneven and muddy in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Dogs on leads are welcome, and the surrounding countryside offers excellent walking, including routes to the priory and along the River Nar. With its combination of dramatic earthworks, evocative ruins, and rich history, Castle Acre Castle is a deeply rewarding destination for anyone interested in medieval England.