A Norman Castle Above the Nar Valley
Castle Acre Castle stands above the historic village of Castle Acre in Norfolk. Established in the years following the Norman Conquest, the castle became the centre of an important estate and formed part of a wider planned settlement in the Nar Valley.
The surviving earthworks are among the most striking features of the site. Deep defensive ditches surround the raised castle enclosure, while fragments of stone walls and other medieval remains reveal how the original fortification developed over time. From the higher ground, the site looks across the village and surrounding valley.
The castle was closely connected with the development of Castle Acre itself. The medieval settlement grew alongside the fortification, with the surviving Bailey Gate marking the historic entrance into the village. Castle Acre Priory, founded nearby, became another important part of this concentration of Norman and medieval buildings.
Today, the castle can easily be explored as part of a visit to Castle Acre. Paths connect the site with the village streets, the River Nar and Castle Acre Priory, allowing several of the area's principal historic places to be experienced on foot.
For walkers, Castle Acre is also an important stop on the Peddars Way. Visiting the castle provides an easy addition to a walk through the village, while local paths offer further opportunities to explore the Nar Valley and surrounding area.
Use our Guides to plan your visit, discover Walking Breaks around Castle Acre, or continue exploring Norfolk through longer self-guided Journeys.
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