Mettingham Castle

Mettingham Castle is a fortified manor with northern and southern courts surrounded by water-filled moats and protective walls. The site preserves a flint gatehouse and sections of curtain wall that define its medieval defensive design.

In 1342 Sir John de Norwich received permission to fortify his manor house, creating a defensive structure with multiple moated courts. This transformation made it one of the fortified properties of its era.

The site housed a college from the 14th to 16th centuries where secular canons taught young pupils following religious traditions. This made it an important learning center distinct from typical monasteries.

The grounds can be explored on specific dates between June and August, but arrangements must be made in advance with the property owner. Visitors should confirm access beforehand since the site is not regularly open to the public.

Archaeological surveys in 2010 uncovered foundations in the inner court suggesting an earlier tower once stood beneath the current structures. This discovery revealed the site had older fortifications than previously thought.