Did you know? - Guildford Castle

Guildford Castle was

originally built shortly after the Norman conquest by William's

forces in order to provide a defence against the Danish armies who

still contested his right to the throne.

Originally a simple Motte

and Bailey, it was extended and improved throughout the twelfth and

thirteenth centuries until during Henry III's time it was classed as

a royal palace. His first son Edward (Later Edward I) spent much of

his childhood there, but by the end of the fourteenth century most of

the castle had fallen into disrepair and all that was left intact was

the King's great chamber.

By the seventeenth century much of the

estate had been turned over to farmland and the keep was in use as a Cockpit. In 1885 the castle and

grounds were bought by Guildford Borough Council and three years

later opened as pleasure gardens.

The keep itself still stands on

its mound overlooking the city and has recently been fully renovated

and is open to the public. It is surrounded by beautiful well kept

gardens which are open all year round and admission is free. If you

haven't been then you should, it's well worth a visit.