Scheduled MonumentsEnglandBenefield Castle

Benefield Castle

England
List entry 1015535
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Benefield Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification situated in Northamptonshire. The site comprises a substantial earthwork consisting of a raised mound surrounded by defensive ditches, characteristic of early Norman military architecture dating to the eleventh or twelfth century. The castle represents the type of fortified residence constructed during the period of Norman settlement and consolidation following 1066, serving both defensive and administrative functions for its local lord. Though the superstructure has not survived, the earthwork remains a significant testament to Norman military engineering and the distribution of power in medieval Northamptonshire.

Benefield Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1015535. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Benefield Castle?

Benefield Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification situated in Northamptonshire. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1015535.

Who is responsible for protecting Benefield Castle?

Benefield 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 1015535.

What other scheduled monuments are near Benefield Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Upper Lyveden moated site (1.6 km), Lyveden New Building and garden (3.1 km), Stoke Doyle moated site, near Oundle. (4.8 km).

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