Scheduled MonumentsEnglandAnstey motte and bailey castle

Anstey motte and bailey castle

England
List entry 1009453
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Anstey motte and bailey is a Norman fortification located in Hertfordshire, England, dating to the 11th or 12th century. The monument comprises a motte, or artificial mound, with an associated bailey, or defended enclosure, typical of early Norman defensive architecture in England following the Conquest of 1066. The earthwork survives as a substantial topographical feature, preserving the characteristic two-part form that characterises this widespread class of medieval fortification. Such mottes and baileys served as focal points of manorial authority and local defence during the Norman period, though this particular example, like many of its type, was likely superseded by later stone structures or fell out of use as military technology and settlement patterns evolved.

Anstey motte and bailey castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1009453. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Anstey motte and bailey castle?

Anstey motte and bailey is a Norman fortification located in Hertfordshire, England, dating to the 11th or 12th century. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1009453.

Who is responsible for protecting Anstey motte and bailey castle?

Anstey motte and bailey castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1009453.

What other scheduled monuments are near Anstey motte and bailey castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Pain's End moated site. (0.5 km), Moated mound near Hale Farm (0.7 km), Moated site, Little Cokenach (2 km).

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