Scheduled MonumentsEnglandGuildford Castle

Guildford Castle

England
List entry 1012340
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Guildford Castle is a Norman castle founded shortly after the Norman Conquest of 1066, likely in the 1070s. The castle occupies a commanding position above the River Wey in the town centre and comprises a motte-and-bailey earthwork with a stone keep constructed in the late twelfth century, which survives as a substantial four-storey square tower. The keep, built under Henry II, represents one of the finest examples of Norman military architecture in southern England and is constructed of chalk with Caen stone dressings. The castle served as both a royal stronghold and administrative centre for the county, maintaining strategic and political significance throughout the medieval period until its decline following the English Civil War.

Guildford Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1012340. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Guildford Castle?

Guildford Castle is a Norman castle founded shortly after the Norman Conquest of 1066, likely in the 1070s. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1012340.

Who is responsible for protecting Guildford Castle?

Guildford 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 1012340.

What other scheduled monuments are near Guildford Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including St Catherine's Chapel (1.1 km), Henley Fort: a London mobilisation centre (1.6 km), Bowl barrow 90m west of Tyting Farm (2.5 km).

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