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Baconsthorpe Castle

Baconsthorpelead

Set amongst farmland and a variety of footpaths, Baconsthorpe Castle is a magical find. On the mere you will see a variety of ducks and geese, and it is delightful to watch the families of these swimming about in spring and early summer.

The Heydons were an ambitious family. They first made their fortunes through the Law profession and later from wool. John Heydon rose to prominence and influence as a supporter and allies of the 1st Duke of Suffolk, William de la Pole. During the turbulent Wars of the Roses (1455-1485) John often switched political allegiances to serve his own purposes. Although he managed to amass great wealth, he also made many enemies, and was described by contemporaries as crafty and Quarrelsome. His position meant he needed a secure base to operate from.

The castle was built in the period from around 1460 to 1486 by John Heydon (died 1479) and Sir Henry Heydon (died 1504). It was built without a licence and initially consisted of a quadrilateral manor house which was later fortified and it became increasingly large and more elaborate as the family's wealth grew. On the east side was a lake and the other sides were protected by a deep ditch.

The house was subject to a dispute in the 16th century when its owner, Sir William Heydon (1540-1594) fell into debt and mortgaged it. In 1590 he decided to sell part of his property but was challenged by his son, Sir Christopher Heydon (1561-1623). Sir William then threatened to demolish the house but Sir Christopher secured a prohibition from the Privy Council and the house was spared. After the Civil War the house fell into ruin.

The present ruins are constructed of flint with some brick. The curtain walls are complete and include the remains of towers, forming a square court of 30m. In the middle of the south wall are the remains of a three-storey gatehouse with a two-storey projection for the drawbridge. To the east are the remains of a two-storey range. To the south is a lake and a moat surrounds the other three sides.

The ruins are administered by English Heritage and are freely accessible to the public during daylight hours.

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http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/baconsthorpe-castle/

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