English Heritage - Baconsthorpe Castle — Attraction in North Norfolk

Baconsthorpe Castle, located in Norfolk, England, is a striking example of a moated and fortified manor house. Built in the 15th century by the prominent Heydon family, the castle is a testament to their wealth and influence. Originally constructed by Sir John Heydon, a lawyer and soldier, the castle underwent significant expansions and modifications over the centuries.

The castle complex includes an outer gatehouse, a large inner courtyard, and extensive remains of the domestic buildings, providing insight into the lifestyle of the English gentry during the medieval and Tudor periods. The Heydons, known for their legal and military prowess, utilized Baconsthorpe as both a luxurious residence and a fortified stronghold.

Baconsthorpe Castle's history is marked by the rise and fall of the Heydon family, who faced financial difficulties in the late 16th century, leading to the gradual decline of the estate. By the early 17th century, parts of the castle were dismantled and sold off as building materials.

Today, the ruins of Baconsthorpe Castle are managed by English Heritage and are open to the public. Visitors can explore the atmospheric remnants of the gatehouse, walls, and moats, gaining a glimpse into the castle's storied past and the lives of its former...

As so many people have already commented, this is a lovely place to visit away from the hustle and bustle of other visitor attractions in the area.

We visited during the Easter weekend. After having a walk around the ruins, we had a picnic by the moat, with some ducks and swans joining us. I've lived in Norfolk all my life and had never heard of this place, so it was great discovering something new.

It is worth noting the car park setup. Whilst the absence of a pay and display machine was initially welcoming, reading the board at the entrance explaining how to pay for parking quickly changed that.

Parking is paid for by sending an SMS to a number, which charges you £2.00. This would have been quick, easy and convenient a decade ago. However for anyone now on a prepay tariff where your credit is exchanged for a packaged allowance, chances are you aren't going to have "credit" to use without topping up.

Issues may be present for people with contracts where they are blocked from sending messages to such numbers. Worth checking your phone before you park up. Other than that, it was a...

Baconsthorpe Castle, historically known as Baconsthorpe Hall, is a ruined, fortified manor house near the village of Baconsthorpe, Norfolk, England. It was established in the 15th century on the site of a former manor hall, probably by John Heydon I and his father, William. John was an ambitious lawyer with many enemies, and built a tall, fortified house, but his descendants became wealthy sheep farmers and, less worried about any attack, developed the property into a more elegant, courtyard house, complete with a...