Bodiam Castle |
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A castle always makes an exciting day out, and Bodiam Castle in East Sussex is no exception. The 14th century exterior is remarkably intact and the interior provides sufficient remaining detail to demonstrate typical castle life with its Great Hall, living quarters and kitchens.
Bodiam Castle was built as a defense and home for a Knight, Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, in 1385. He was a veteran of the Wars of France and earned special permission from the king to build this fine home.
Bodiam Castle has splendid views of the Rothe Valley from the top of the towers, reached by the spiral staircase. Other original features of interest are the moat and the gatehouse with its original wooden portcullis, a rare
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As you pass through the gatehouse, look up at the vaulted ceiling and see the "murder holes" in it. These were used by the castle's defenders to fire arrows and missiles or pour boiling water and noxious substances on their attackers.
Bodiam Castle was never actually attacked but it was besieged during the War of the Roses and during the Civil War.
Unfortunately the interior of the castle was largely dismantled during the 17th century. All that remains of the Screens Passage are three archways. The passage once connected the Great Hall with the kitchen, buttery and pantry, which were often built away from the main house for fire safety.
The stone curtain-walls rise from the defensive moat and are topped with battlements. The inner courtyard is still used from time to time for National Trust organized events such as the Grand Medieval Weekend and occasional open air theatre productions.
In the castle grounds, the remains of a mill and millpond can be seen, which were built alongside the river near the harbour. The extensive parkland around the castle is ideal
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In 1829 the castle changed hands and John Fuller of Brightling bought it for £3,000. It was later purchased by George Cubitt, also known as Lord Ashcombe. Both owners worked on restoring the castle.
The most recent owner was Lord Curzon, an influential figure in the history and conservation of England. He bought it in 1917 and as part of his extensive works he had the moat drained. It revealed the footings of an original wooden bridge along with pieces of armour, cannonballs and other miscellaneous objects. These are now on display in the Bodiam Castle Museum.
Upon his death in 1926, Lord Curzon bequeathed Bodiam Castle to the National Trust. He also left a wonderfully detailed book which was published with many facts about the history of the castle.
Visitors today can enjoy the touring the impressive castle building, the ornamental water gardens, millpond and a Second World War Pillbox constructed in the 20th century for more modern warfare.
To complete your visit there is a National Trust shop selling Bodiam wine and local honey, amongst other items. There is also a tea room and an ice-cream kiosk.
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Opening Times
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(2010 times)
2nd January - 7th February 2010: Sat and Sun 11.00am - 4.00pm13th February - 31st October 2010: Daily 10.30am - 5.00pm Gift shop and tea room close at 5 most days, but at 5.30 during school summer holidays. 3rd November - 23rd December 2010: Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun 11.00am - 4.00pm Last Admission 30 minutes before closing. |
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Admission Charges
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(2010 prices)
Gift Aid Admission (Standard Admission prices in brackets): Adult £6.40 (£5.80), Child £3.20 (£2.90), Family £17 (£15). Reduced rate when arriving by cycle, on public transport or for visitors arriving via Kent and East Sussex Railway; stations at Tenterden, Northiam and Bodiam |
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Directions
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Entrance to castle 400 yards from car park. By Bus: Stagecoach in Hastings 349: Hastings railway station-Hawkhurst By Ferry: Bodiam Ferry (seasonal) from Newenden Bridge (A28) By Road: 3 miles south of Hawkhurst, 3 miles east of A21 Hurst Green midway between Tunbridge Wells and Hastings By Train: Steam railway (seasonal) from Tenterden 0.25 mile; Robertsbridge 5 miles; Battle 10 miles On Foot: On the Sussex Border Path. |
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Bodiam Castle Postcode for SatNav: TN32 5UA |
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