Allesley Castle Motte
A historical earthwork site featuring a prominent motte and defensive ditch, offering a glimpse into medieval fortifications.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for exploring the grounds
Allesley Castle Motte
Best Time
Best for exploring the grounds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historical earthwork site featuring a prominent motte and defensive ditch, offering a glimpse into medieval fortifications.
"A quiet historical site where you can imagine the past, though it's primarily an earth mound."
Wear sturdy shoes
The ground can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the motte and ditch. :athletic_shoe:
Imagine the past
As an unexcavated site, bring your imagination to visualize the castle's former glory. :thought_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Motte
Central mound
A substantial earthwork, the heart of the former castle, offering a sense of its past scale.
Defensive Ditch
Perimeter of the motte
A wide, encircling ditch that once formed a key part of the castle's defenses.
Bridge Base Blocks
Within the ditch
Intriguing concrete blocks, remnants of potential bridge supports, hinting at past access.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into History
What to Expect on Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
The ground can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the motte and ditch. :athletic_shoe:
Imagine the past
As an unexcavated site, bring your imagination to visualize the castle's former glory. :thought_balloon:
Check local access
While generally accessible, confirm any local access restrictions before your visit. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
The ground can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the motte and ditch. :athletic_shoe:
Imagine the past
As an unexcavated site, bring your imagination to visualize the castle's former glory. :thought_balloon:
Check local access
While generally accessible, confirm any local access restrictions before your visit. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Allesley Castle Motte is a historical earthwork site, appreciated for its quiet, natural setting and the opportunity to imagine its past. Visitors note its historical significance as a scheduled monument, though its unexcavated nature means there are no standing structures to see. It's a peaceful spot for a brief exploration and reflection on local history.
"Allesley Castle is a former Motte & Bailey Castle in Allesley, Coventry.
The mound has never been excavated. All that remains of the castle is a large mound - the motte - and a defensive ditch approximately 45 metres (148 ft) in diameter.
The ditch contains several concrete blocks which are thought to be bases for bridges over the motte. The site is a scheduled historical monument.
There is little documentary evidence for the history of the castle. It was possibly built as early as the 11th century or around 1140 (during the anarchy) and it was probably ruined by 1387, but there is speculation that it may have been built in the 14th century by Lord Hastings, who built another fortification seven miles away.
It was seized from the estate of Robert Fitch in 1588 and it was probably in ruins by 1650.
English Heritage believe the site contains artefacts which will reveal more about the construction and history of the castle."
Paul Barton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Allesley Castle Motte is located in Allesley, Coventry. While specific public transport routes directly to the motte are limited, local bus services can get you to the Allesley area, from where it's a short walk. Driving is often the most convenient option, with potential for parking nearby.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check local signage or inquire about parking options in the Allesley village area before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Allesley Castle Motte is a historical site and generally accessible without an entrance fee. It's a scheduled monument, meaning it's protected for its historical significance.
As an outdoor historical site, there are typically no set opening or closing hours. You can usually visit during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary feature is the large earth mound (motte) and the surrounding defensive ditch. You'll also find concrete blocks within the ditch, believed to be remnants of bridge supports.
Children can explore the grounds, but supervision is recommended due to the uneven terrain and the presence of the ditch. It's a good spot for imaginative play.
Yes, you can typically walk around the perimeter of the ditch and explore the base of the motte. Climbing the motte itself might be restricted or challenging depending on its condition.
The site offers opportunities for landscape and historical photography, especially capturing the scale of the earthworks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Allesley village offers local pubs and cafes where you can find refreshments. For more extensive dining options, Coventry city center is a short drive away.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to imagine what life was like here centuries ago. The concrete blocks in the ditch can be a fun mystery to solve together. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, as the ground can be uneven, and keep a close eye on children near the ditch. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the historical landscape, making it a memorable family outing.
🚶 History Enthusiasts
As a scheduled monument, it represents a protected piece of the past. While documentary evidence is limited, the site itself, along with potential future archaeological findings, holds clues to its construction and purpose. It's a place to ponder the lives of those who built and inhabited it, and the historical events that led to its eventual ruin.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Mystery of Allesley Castle
What adds to the intrigue are the concrete blocks found within the ditch, which are believed to have served as bases for bridges that once spanned the gap, providing access to the motte. Documentary evidence is scarce, but it's thought the castle was likely in ruins by 1387. There's speculation it might have been built in the 14th century by Lord Hastings, who was also involved in constructing another fortification nearby. The site was seized from Robert Fitch's estate in 1588 and was likely in ruins by 1650. English Heritage suggests that the site holds artifacts that could shed more light on its construction and history.
Visiting Allesley Castle Motte is an opportunity to connect with a less-documented piece of history. While there are no standing structures, the sheer scale of the earthworks allows visitors to imagine the defensive capabilities and the lives of those who inhabited this site centuries ago. It's a place that sparks curiosity and encourages contemplation of the past.
Exploring the Landscape
Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy footwear as the terrain can be uneven, particularly around the ditch and the base of the motte. The concrete blocks within the ditch are a unique point of interest, prompting questions about how people accessed the castle in its prime. The unexcavated nature of the site means that much of its story is left to the imagination, making it a compelling destination for those who enjoy historical speculation and quiet contemplation.
While the immediate area around the motte is focused on the historical earthworks, the broader Allesley region offers a glimpse into Warwickshire's countryside. Recent developments in the area, such as new housing projects, highlight the ongoing evolution of the landscape, contrasting with the ancient history preserved at the castle motte.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit