Framlingham Castle

The castle's origins date back to 1148, when an early motte or ringwork was built by the Normans. However, this structure was destroyed by Henry II in 1174 after a failed revolt. Roger Bigod, the Earl of Norfolk, then had a new castle built without a central keep. The castle was captured by King John in 1216 after a brief siege. By the late 13th century, Framlingham Castle had evolved into a residence, surrounded by extensive hunting parks. In the 15th and 16th centuries, it was owned by the Mowbray and Howard families, who modernized it by constructing two artificial lakes and expanding it with brickwork. By the end of the 16th century, the castle fell into disrepair, and after the last Howard owner faced financial difficulties, it was donated to Pembroke College in 1636. The inner buildings were demolished to make way for a workhouse, which operated until 1839. Later, the castle served as a drill hall and county court. In 1913, it was transferred to the Commissioner of Works and used by the British military during World War II. Today, Framlingham Castle is a Scheduled Monument.

The castle is located in Framlingham, in the county of Suffolk, England, United Kingdom, at an elevation of approximately 47 meters above sea level.