Baconsthorpe Castle

Baconsthorpe Castle is a moated and fortified 15th century manor house, that was homed to the Heydon family. It combined domestic with defensive elements giving it its castle like appearance.

The inner gatehouse was built during the wars of the Roses period in the 1450's and the outer gatehouse was built in 1560, and was built to show the families wealth.

The inner castle was split into two separate courts, the service court which contained stables, kitchens, a bakehouse, a brewhouse and also accommodation for the servants. And the main house containing the most important building - the public great hall. This was used for holding feasts, entertaining guests and any other social or main events that took place here in the castle.

The gatehouse was was an important symbol of John Heydens Lordship containing luxurious furnished rooms for the main use of the Heydon family. But despite the castles powerful appearance, it was not built for any defensive purposes.

Today the castle is owned by English Heritage and is freely accessible to the public.