Berkhamsted Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey castle built to obtain control of a key route between London and the Midlands during the Norman conquest of England in the 11th century. Besieged by the French in 1216, it was a favourite residence of medieval kings until the late 15th century when it became increasingly unfashionable and fell into decline. By the mid-16th century, it was in ruins and considered unsuitable for royal use. Today, these imposing ruins with their large open grassy area offer the ideal spot for picnics and running around.
Read more
