Cainhoe Castle, Medieval archaeological site in Clophill, England
Cainhoe Castle is a medieval fortification in Clophill featuring a prominent earthen mound surrounded by multiple outer ramparts and deep defensive ditches. The layout displays the classic motte-and-bailey design with layered defensive lines.
The fortification was established following the Norman Conquest and served for centuries as the seat of a barony. Later it was abandoned, though a manor house structure was subsequently built on the site, reflecting different periods of occupation.
The site represents the Norman practice of establishing control through strategic fortifications, with the motte-and-bailey design reflecting military architecture of the period.
The grounds are accessible from Clophill High Street through a field path near the A507 road. The site remains open to visitors and offers free access to the earthwork remains.
The castle grounds contain medieval fish ponds and evidence of a later manor house platform, indicating changes in the site's function over centuries.
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