Coveted by churchmen and noblemen alike it has had a long and chequered history. After two sieges during the Civil War, visitors to the castle today see it in its more recent role as a romantic ruin in the grounds of the ‘new’ Sherborne Castle. Only the Southwest Gatehouse and parts of the castle including […]
Sandsfoot Castle
The remains of a Henrician artillery castle, built around 1541, by Henry VIII as part of his network of coastal defences to protect against French and Spanish attacks. It was erected together with Portland castle to defend the anchorage between Weymouth and Portland. The castle was repaired in 1548 and again in 1610/11and bastion earthworks […]
Lulworth Castle
Surrounded by beautiful parkland with views of the Jurassic Coast, this 17th-century hunting lodge has remained in the same family since 1641. Since a devastating fire in 1929, the building has been restored externally and consolidated inside. The displays, interpretation panels, gallery and unique basement-to-tower interior reveal secrets from the past. Discount for English Heritage […]
Chideock Castle
The earthwork remains of a moated site of manorial status and associated enclosures, fishponds, building platforms and terraces within the field known as Ruins Field. The moated site comprises a square platform, 42 metres across, containing earthworks which reflect the positions of previous buildings. It is surrounded by a deep moat, on average 15 metres […]
Rufus Castle
The site of a castle, also known as Bow and Arrow Castle, captured in 1142 by Robert, Earl of Gloucester and rebuilt in the late 15th century. The remains of the 15th century octagonal tower with gun loops, walls and gateway survive. The approach bridge and entry archway are 19th century in date. The walls […]