NORWICH CASTLE

Work started on the largest motte in England in 1067. In c.1125 the great stone keep was added, 70 foot high, and in the 13th century the outer stone city walls were erected. During the 14th century it was used as a prison and allowed to decay until it was refortified during the Civil War.The keep which was refaced in the 19th century remains as does the motte and parts of the wall.

On the bank of the river nearby is Cow Tower, once a toll house but converted in 1398 into an artillery tower which became one of a number of towers used as part of the Norwich defences. It stands 50 feet high and unusually is faced with bricks.

Both buildings are open all year.

Photo Eric Dewhirst