Watch Hill Castle
Watch Hill Castle, Medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Bowdon, England
Description
Watch Hill Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification situated on a triangular promontory overlooking the River Bollin in Bowdon. The raised mound stands approximately 6 meters high with a base diameter of about 40 meters and features surrounding defensive ditches.
History
The fortification dates to the Norman period and is linked to Hamon de Massey's rebellion against King Henry II in 1173. This connection indicates it served as a significant site in local 12th-century political conflicts.
Culture
The site represents medieval military power in the region, visible in how the raised mound dominates the landscape even today. Visitors can appreciate how such fortifications served as symbols of control and authority over the surrounding lands.
Practical
The site is accessible via a path near New Bridge, allowing visitors to view the earthwork structures and defensive ditches up close. Visit during dry weather to better appreciate the mound's form and the surrounding landscape features.
Did you know?
A silver penny discovered in a rabbit hole at the site provides tangible evidence of activity during Henry II's reign. The find reveals how small objects can tell significant stories about the medieval past.
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Dunham Massey Hall
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Dunham Castle
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Dunham Massey Hall sundial
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Church of St Mary the Virgin, Bowdon
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Temple to west of Dunham Hall
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7, Church Brow
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Sawmill
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Bollington Mill
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Carriage House immediately to south of kitchen courtyard
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Altrincham And Dunham Massey War Memorial
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Langham Grove Obelisk
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Deer House
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Pier at south east corner of forecourt garden
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Dunham Town War Memorial
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Stables To West Of Barn Cottages
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Denzell House
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The Griffin
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Charcoal Lodge
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The Peak on The Mount
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Pier at south west corner of forecourt garden
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Stables to south of Hall
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Slaughterhouse
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2 piers and lakeside wall (including the entire length which has a moulded coping)
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Freestanding pier to north west corner of garden forecourt
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Orangery
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Gateway in bounding wall opposite kitchen gardens
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Wellhouse and adjoining root arbour
1.9 km
Two small piers at south of garden forecourt
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