Hedingham Castle

Castle Hedingham
Halstead
Essex
CO9 3DJ

Tel: +44 (0)1787 460 261
Fax: +44 (0)1787 461 473
Email: mail@hedinghamcastle.co.uk
Web: http://www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk


Come and see England's finest and best preserved Norman Keep. Children love to explore the interior of the castle which is 110 feet high with walls 12 feet thick. The castle was built in1140 and was home to the de Veres, Earls of Oxford for 550 years and is still owned by their descendants. It has been besieged by King John and visited by King Henry VII, King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.

There is a beautiful bridge, built c. 1496 to replace the drawbridge, which spans the dry moat leading to the Inner Bailey. A charming dovecote can be seen down by the lake. In the Banqueting Hall is a spectacular arch and finely carved stonework, a tribute to the skill of Norman masons. A good view of this magnificent room can be obtained from the Minstrel's Gallery above, built within the thickness of the walls.

School Visits

Hedingham Castle is an exciting learning environment for children of all ages. The Castle and its beautiful surroundings provide an ideal place for children to learn about the past. There are peaceful grounds with lake, and woodland walks full of wildlife. An ideal place for children to enjoy nature study. There is a lakeside picnic area and in bad weather packed lunches can be eaten inside the Keep on the top floor. There are many links with the National Curriculum, an information pack containing teachers guide, work sheets and answers are available.

Additional Information:

  • Gift Shop
  • Tea Room
  • Events

     

    Opening Times
    (2007 times)
    1st April to 28th October:
    Sunday to Thursday 10.00am - 5.00pm.

    Closed Friday and Saturday: throughout the season.

    Admission Charges
    (2007 prices)
    Adult £5.00; Child £3.50; Concession £4.50; Family Ticket £17.00 (2 adults & up to 3 children)

    Disabled and helpers no charge (except concession rates on event days where available).

    Directions
    From London......M25, M11 exit 8 (A120 Colchester), take A120 to Braintree. Circle round the bypass following Sudbury signs. The castle is signposted from here. 1m out of Braintree on Sudbury road branch left on A1017 to Gosfield and The Hedinghams. In Sible Hedingham take right turning to Castle Hedingham and turn left to castle at top of village main street. Entrance gates 200 yards on right.
    Show map of Hedingham Castle...

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