Earthwork castles are among the earliest and most atmospheric fortifications in Britain. Long before great stone keeps rose above the countryside, Norman lords built with timber and earth, leaving behind striking mounds, banks, and ditches. These subtle traces in the landscape still mark where power was asserted and defended nearly a thousand years ago. For history enthusiasts, earthworks offer a unique chance to step back into the very beginnings of castle building in the UK.
This collection focuses on forgotten motte-and-bailey sites, many hidden in fields or woods, where imagination brings the defences to life. Exploring these remains reveals not only the ingenuity of early Norman military design but also the resilience of features shaped directly from the soil itself.
Visiting earthworks is like reading a landscape story. Most sites are free to access, though some lie on private or farmland, so always follow local guidance. Sturdy footwear is recommended as ditches and mounds can be uneven. Bringing a historic map or guide enhances the experience, helping you trace where palisades, halls, and gatehouses once stood.
Q: What is a motte-and-bailey castle?
A: A motte is a raised mound with a keep on top, while the bailey was a defended courtyard below.
Q: Why do only earthworks survive?
A: Early castles were timber-built; when abandoned, only the ditches and banks endured.
Q: Are these sites open to the public?
A: Many are, but always respect private land and check access rights before visiting.
Q: How old are these earthworks?
A: Most date from just after 1066, during the Norman consolidation of power.
Rugemont Castle is a quiet gem in Bedfordshire’s countryside. This Norman motte-and-bailey site offers scenic trails, historical intrigue, and an off-the-beaten-path charm perfect for families, couples,
Discover Thurleigh Castle, an understated yet atmospheric motte-and-bailey earthwork beside St Peter’s Church in rural Bedfordshire. Dating to the mid-12th century and built atop earlier IronAge
Clapham Castle, also known as Clapham Camp, is a fascinating earthwork hidden in the woods near Bedford. Though subtle, these ancient banks reveal centuries of history, linking prehistoric landscapes
Risinghoe Castle in Bedfordshire is a forgotten Norman-era motte, offering a peaceful green space and a glimpse into medieval England. Though little remains, this hidden site is ideal for families,
Totternhoe Castle in Bedfordshire is a scenic Norman motte-and-bailey ruin ideal for family outings, couples’ walks, or solo adventures. Nestled above the Vale of Aylesbury, it offers panoramic views,
Discover Yielden Castle: a quietly evocative Norman motte-and-bailey in rural Bedfordshire. Learn how to visit, including village walks, baking history, and changing roles from fortress to manor and
Bedfordshire’s best earthwork castles offer a quieter kind of adventure. From Totternhoe to Yielden, these grassy mounds tell tales of Norman conquest and medieval might. Perfect for families, couples,