From kings to ravens, ladies to peasants, Corfe Castle has offered sanctuary to people from many walks of life during its history. Discover all this and more among the Castle ruins.
Whet your appetite with these five highlights from the Castle:
The perfect position
© NTPL / Stuart Cox
Corfe Castle is strategically positioned on top of a steep chalk mound, surrounded by a defensive ditch. The Castle's defenders could prepare for any attack on the Purbeck Hills coming from Poole Harbour on the South Purbeck Coast.
The position of the Castle, high on the mound, made it appear almost impenetrable to invading forces. The Corfe Castle of the 21st century is very different to that of its early life. Today, there are still magnificent views over the surrounding countryside, but they are enjoyed by tourists, rather than kings, queens and knights.
Murderous defences
© Pam White / Corfe Castle
Though the Castle now lies in ruins, many of its defences can still be seen today. The Castle's first line of defence, the Outer Gatehouse, now welcomes visitors, not enemies. Look up from the South-west Gatehouse and you will see murderholes, where defending soldiers would have poured rocks on their enemies.
With walls punctured by arrow-slits and crowned with the remnants of the battlement, it is no wonder the Castle was known as 'the most secure of all English Castles'.
Grassy slopes
© NTPL / David Levenson
Today, the Castle terraces are far removed from the hustle and bustle of medieval times. However they do prove very popular with visitors. Families often picnic on the grass, and more often than not, can be seen rolling down the slopes!
A very romantic ruin
© Jessy Harris / Corfe Castle
Following the fall of the Castle, much of the stone was removed and used to build the neighbouring village. The Castle was then left for nature to reclaim.
Wild flowers thrived on the grassy terraces, and ivy began to climb the walls. Soon Victorian tourists began flocking to the Castle to enjoy the picturesque and romantic ruin. You can still enjoy the magic of the Castle today.
Exploration, discovery & adventure
© NTPL / David Levenson
The Castle is perfect for adventurers of any age. From the depths of the dungeon to the highest point on the hill, the Castle is full of interesting nooks and crannies ripe for investigating.
Imagine having to defend the Castle as you peer through the arrow-slits, discover what it was like to live within the Castle during medieval times, and of course re-enact sword battles to defend your picnic from hungry raiders!
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