Beaudesert Castle, Motte-and-bailey castle in Beaudesert, Warwickshire, England
Beaudesert Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification in Warwickshire featuring a raised earthwork mound with a protective ditch surrounding the defensive structure. Two fishponds were incorporated into the site, serving as part of medieval food production and estate management.
The fortress was built around 1140 by Thurstane de Monfort and transferred to the Earl of Warwick in 1369. It remained in use until the mid-16th century before being abandoned.
Archaeological investigations at the site have uncovered a 13th-century moulded capital and ceramic roof tiles, revealing the architectural methods of medieval England.
The site is freely accessible and allows walking across the fortification and surrounding ditches. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the ground can be uneven and muddy in places.
The bailey section divides into two functionally different areas: a rectangular inner enclosure and an oval-shaped outer zone. This layout shows how various activities were spatially organized within the fortification.
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