Dunham Castle, Medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Dunham Massey, England.
Description
Dunham Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification with an earthen mound measuring about 24 meters across and standing roughly 2 meters tall. The mound is now surrounded by an ornamental lake that historically served as a defensive moat.
History
The site was first recorded in 1173 when Hamon de Massey held it during a revolt against King Henry II. It gradually fell into disuse and was abandoned by 1362.
Culture
The site reflects how Norman settlers established control through military structures that dominated the landscape. People today can see how this fortification once represented power and authority in the region.
Practical
The castle mound is situated within the National Trust property at Dunham Massey and remains freely accessible to visitors. Wear comfortable shoes as the ground is uneven and can become slippery after rain.
Did you know?
The former moat was gradually transformed into a decorative garden lake over centuries, showing how the site shifted from military use to ornamental landscape. This conversion reveals how medieval structures adapted as their strategic importance faded.
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Temple to west of Dunham Hall
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Sawmill
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Deer House
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Langham Grove Obelisk
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Bridgewater Canal Aqueduct And Adjoining Bridge 1/4 Mile South Of Woodhouse Lane Aqueduct
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Carriage House immediately to south of kitchen courtyard
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Dunham Town War Memorial
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Pier at south east corner of forecourt garden
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Dunham School Bridge
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Charcoal Lodge
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Stables to south of Hall
105 m
The Peak on The Mount
112 m
Pier at south west corner of forecourt garden
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Stables To West Of Barn Cottages
185 m
Manor Farmhouse with forecourt railings and gates
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Slaughterhouse
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The Village Farmhouse including gatepiers
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Dunham School
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Two small piers at south of garden forecourt
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2 piers and lakeside wall (including the entire length which has a moulded coping)
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Wellhouse and adjoining root arbour
166 m
Orangery
123 m
Freestanding pier to north west corner of garden forecourt
62 m
Gateway in bounding wall opposite kitchen gardens
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