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Orford Castle

Work began on the castle at Orford in 1165. It was built by King
Henry II to ward off the threat of a coastal invasion. Only the Great Tower, or Keep, now remain, but the huge earthworks and mounds are clearly visible, giving some idea of the size of the original structure.

The Keep, the first in England to be built in a polygonal design, has 21 sides and three immense square turrets 27m high. The mainly circular interior has many rooms on five floors, including kitchens and a chapel. It is thought the castle basement and the upper hall on the first floor were used as Henry II's apartment.

Henry also drained the marshes around the area which helped Orford become a bustling riverside port trading in fish and wool.

From the top of the tower there are good views of Orford Ness and the surrounding countryside.

Weblink: English Heritage