East Sussex Travel Guide - Castles

Begun in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge to discourage French raids. Picture book design; moated, crenellated battlements, reached by no less than three drawbridges and a barbican. Almost too romantic to be true (but it is!). more...
Bodiam, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, England, TN32 5UA

Attraction Type: Castle
Location: 12 m N Hastings, off A21
Website: Bodiam Castle
Email: bodiamcastle@nationaltrust.org.uk
Phone: 01580 830 196
Fax: 01580 830 398
National Trust
Location map
OS Grid TQ786 257
Photo Credit: David Ross and Britain Express
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The ruins of a mighty castle built by Henry VIII as part of his great coastal defenses. The sea, which used to lap at the foot of the castle walls, now lies over a mile distant, and the castle stands adrift and somewjhat lonely looking in a field. The castle is in need of repairs and may not be open to visitors for safety reasons, but you can still get a good view into the interior.
Camber, Rye, East Sussex, England, TN31 7RS

Attraction Type: Castle
Location: off A259 1 mile South of Rye, 1 mile walk across fields
Website: Camber Castle
Phone: 01797 223 862
English Heritage
Location map
OS Grid TQ969186
Photo Credit: David Ross
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Red brick moated castle of 1440's, built by Ralph Fiennes, whose family crest is displayed over the entrance. Now home to the International Study Centre of Queen's University (Canada), so the interior cannot be viewed.
Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, England, BN27 1RN

Attraction Type: Castle
Location: 4 m E Hailsham, on A271
Website: Herstmonceaux Castle
Email: c_dennett@isc.queensu.ac.uk
Phone: 01323 833816
Fax: 01323 834 499
Location map
OS Grid TQ646 105
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Imposing Norman castle in the very centre of historic Lewes, begun by William de Warenne shortly after the Norman invasion in 1066. Lewes Castle was not completed until three centuries had passed. Unusually, there are two baileys surrounding a single motte. The castle is composed of a shell keep with octagonal corner towers, and a striking 14th century barbican. Barbican House is home to an enjoyable museum telling the tale oof the castle and the history of Lewes.
169 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, England, BN7 1YE

Attraction Type: Castle
Location: off the high street in Lewes, A27/A26/A275
Website: Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum
Email: castle@sussexpast.co.uk
Phone: 01273 486 290
Fax: 01273 486 990
Location map
OS Grid TQ414100
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The Romans first built a castle on this site; later the Normans followed suit. Used for defenses during the Second World War.
Pevensey , East Sussex, England, BN24 5LE

Attraction Type: Castle
Location: off A259
Website: Pevensey Castle
Phone: 01323 762 604
Fax: 01323 762 604
English Heritage
Location map
OS Grid TQ647 049
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