Scheduled MonumentsEnglandMarshwood Castle

Marshwood Castle

England
List entry 1002836
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Marshwood Castle is a motte-and-bailey castle located in the parish of Marshwood in west Dorset. The monument consists of a substantial mound with a surrounding ditch, typical of Norman fortifications erected in the eleventh and twelfth centuries following the conquest of 1066. The site represents a significant example of early medieval military architecture in Dorset, though documentary evidence regarding its specific foundation date and founding lord remains limited. Like many such castles, it was likely constructed to control local communications and assert feudal authority over the surrounding landscape.

Marshwood Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1002836. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Marshwood Castle?

Marshwood Castle is a motte-and-bailey castle located in the parish of Marshwood in west Dorset. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1002836.

Who is responsible for protecting Marshwood Castle?

Marshwood 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 1002836.

What other scheduled monuments are near Marshwood Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Barrow cemetery on Hardown Hill 600m west of Butt Farm (3.2 km), Small multivallate hillfort with outworks called Coney's Castle (3.3 km), Three bowl barrows on High Bullen 230m south west of Hazelbower (3.5 km).

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