Top 4 Castles around Highmoor

Around Highmoor, you'll discover a mix of historical sites ranging from significant royal strongholds to fortified manor houses. These include the impressive earthworks of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, medieval ruins, and a picturesque 16th-century mansion with earlier Norman elements. The area offers a blend of historical exploration and natural landscapes.

The castles around Highmoor primarily represent the Norman period through the medieval era, with later developments into Tudor and subsequent centuries. For instance, Wallingford Castle dates back to William the Conqueror in 1067, while Greys Court features a Norman Great Tower from the 11th or 12th century, alongside its later 16th-century mansion.

Wallingford Castle was one of England's most powerful royal strongholds, built by William the Conqueror. It played a crucial role during The Anarchy civil war, serving as Empress Matilda's base and famously surviving multiple sieges. It was also a Royalist stronghold during the English Civil War before its demolition by Cromwell's order. Today, you can explore its extensive earthworks and fragments of its walls.

At Greys Court, you can explore a charming 16th-century mansion, climb the medieval Norman Great Tower for panoramic views, and wander through stunning walled gardens. The gardens feature seasonal blooms, including roses and wisteria, and you can also see a unique Tudor donkey wheel. It's a National Trust property offering a blend of architecture and natural beauty.

Yes, within the grounds of Wallingford Castle, you can find the Remains of St Nicholas College. These ruins consist of 13th-century limestone rubble walls, including an L-shaped wall and a section with a two-centre archway. They offer a glimpse into the ecclesiastical structures, specifically the King's Chapel, that once stood within the medieval fortress.

Yes, both Wallingford Castle Meadows and Greys Court offer opportunities for walks. Wallingford Castle Meadows is a public garden with a wildlife area, perfect for strolls. Greys Court has diverse gardens and woodland walks. For more extensive hiking, you can find various routes in the region, such as those listed in the Easy hikes around Highmoor guide.

Beyond exploring the castles, the Highmoor area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes and mountain biking trails. There are also many hiking options, including easy trails through nature reserves and scenic viewpoints.

Yes, both Greys Court and Wallingford Castle Meadows are considered family-friendly. Greys Court offers open spaces for play, educational activities, and charming gardens. Wallingford Castle Meadows provides a peaceful environment for strolls, with historical ruins and a wildlife area that children can explore.

For Wallingford Castle Meadows, there is a paid parking area on the road near the main access gate off Castle Street on Bear Lane. For Greys Court, as a National Trust property, it has its own visitor parking facilities. It's always advisable to check the respective official websites for the most current parking information.

The best time to visit the castles around Highmoor is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and the gardens, particularly at Greys Court, are in full bloom. However, the historical sites like Wallingford Castle Meadows are accessible year-round for peaceful strolls, offering different scenic beauty in autumn and winter.

While specific rules can vary, Wallingford Castle Meadows is generally dog-friendly, offering open spaces for walks. For National Trust properties like Greys Court, dogs are often welcome in certain outdoor areas, such as the parkland and some garden sections, but usually not inside the main house. It's best to check the individual property's website for their specific dog policy before your visit.

Yes, the towns near the castles offer various options. Wallingford, close to Wallingford Castle Meadows, has a good range of eating places, including pubs and cafes. Greys Court also has its own cafe on-site for visitor refreshments.