Autumn at Bodiam Castle

A view of Bodiam Castle from across the moat with autumn leaves in the foreground — A dawn mist rises from the moat at Bodiam Castle

This autumn, see photographs from the British Wildlife Photography awards on display in the castle, enjoy a walk around the grounds or climb the towers and see autumn colour in the surrounding valley.

Kelp Bed at Dawn (Oarweed), Kingsgate Bay, Kent, BWPA competition 2018, by Robert Canis

The British Wildlife Photography Awards exhibition at Bodiam Castle

Marking the 10th anniversary of the BWPA, this exhibition will combine the breath-taking beauty of British wildlife with the picturesque and romantic ancient monument that is Bodiam Castle. Saturday 5 October 2019– Sunday 5 January 2020.

Autumn days at the castle

The impressive and beautiful symmetry of Bodiam Castle with its massive towers and broad moat is the perfect example of a 14th century medieval castle. A great place to explore and imagine yourself back in the past and coming across the bridge for a magnificent feast in the great hall.

Visitors on the bridge over the moat at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex — Enjoy the castle with the whole family

Autumn family fun at Bodiam Castle

Bring the family to Bodiam Castle this autumn and climb the towers to get a better view of the seasonal colours all around. Open daily, 11.00am to 4pm.

Discover the beauty of autumn at Bodiam Castle

Look and explore

Once inside the castle there's lots to explore. Discover the history of the castle and its founder, Sir Edward Dallingridge or see photographs from the British Wildlife Photography Awards on display in the towers.

Autumn is the perfect time to climb the steep spiral staircases to the top of the towers and be rewarded with the most incredible views across the River Rother valley towards Ewhurst Green and east towards Newenden. The views are ever changing with the seasons and the state of the river.

Bodiam Castle viewed through a frame of autumn leaves — Autumn leaves frame Bodiam Castle in East Sussex

As well as climbing up, you can take a few steps down from the castle courtyard and see the well room. The water would have been used in the nearby kitchens, but only ale from the buttery would have been drunk at the table. Perhaps you can see why? Before you leave this room, take a look up for a bird's eye view.

Take a seat on the dais and survey the great hall before you, imagine looking up to the minstrels' gallery at the far end above the arches to the buttery, pantry and kitchen. This room with its great vaulted roof and impressive arched window, probably glazed with stained glass, would have seen many a feast and celebration.