One of Henry II first acts as king was the systematic reduction of the adulterine castles built without royal licence during the Anarchy. Over 375 unlicensed castles were identified and demolished. Farnham was among those taken back by the crown or destroyed. This reassertion of royal control over fortifications was a defining moment of Henry II kingship.
Henry II: c. 1,500–2,500 troops. Baronial garrison: c. 100–200 defenders.
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