Bodiam Castle

medieval · architecture · England · defense

Built in 1385. Sir Edward Dalyngrigge constructed Bodiam Castle with permission from King Richard II during the Hundred Years' War, when England was worried about French attacks across the English Channel.

Surrounded by water. The castle sits in an artificial moat, meaning people dug channels to fill it with water as an extra layer of protection and to make the castle look even more impressive.

No central keep. Unlike many medieval castles that had a tall tower in the middle called a keep, Bodiam Castle had rooms built along the outer walls instead, arranged around inner courtyards.

Towers and battlements. Corner towers and crenellated battlements (those notched walls you see on castles) marked the castle's four corners and entrance, giving soldiers places to watch for enemies and defend the stronghold.

Built for show too. While Bodiam Castle was designed to be tough and defensive, its beautiful layout and location in that watery landscape suggest the owner also wanted to show off his wealth and power.