Scheduled MonumentsEnglandBurwell Castle

Burwell Castle

England
List entry 1015596
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Burwell Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification located in Cambridgeshire, dating to the early twelfth century. The castle comprises a substantial earthen mound surrounded by a ditch, with a bailey enclosure adjacent to the motte, representing a typical example of post-Conquest military architecture. The site was likely constructed in the early 1100s, possibly under the lordship of the de Breteville family, and served as a local stronghold during the period of Norman consolidation in East Anglia. Although no substantial masonry structures survive above ground, the earthwork remains a well-preserved example of early medieval fortification and an important testament to Norman settlement patterns in the region.

Burwell Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1015596. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Burwell Castle?

Burwell Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification located in Cambridgeshire, dating to the early twelfth century. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1015596.

Who is responsible for protecting Burwell Castle?

Burwell 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 1015596.

What other scheduled monuments are near Burwell Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Long barrow 410m south east of Partridge Hall Farm (4 km), Swaffham Bulbeck moated site. (4.6 km), Bowl barrow 160m south west of the National Stud clubhouse (5.5 km).

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