History

Baconsthorpe Castle was built in the 15th century by successive generations of the prominent Norfolk family, the Heydons. William Heydon acquired the site from the Bacon family in the early 15th century. His son John grew in social and political prominence during the Wars of the Roses and probably began building at Baconsthorpe in about 1450, starting with the great inner gatehouse.

John's son, Sir Henry, completed the moat and the fortified house in the southwest corner later in the 15th century. Around 1560, Sir Christopher Heydon added the outer gatehouse and outer court. Despite being a successful businessman, Sir Christopher died in debt, causing his son William to sell off part of Baconsthorpe.

At the turn of the 17th century, the ornamental mere was created on the east arm of the moat. The formal gardens recorded as being to the east were also probably made at this time. The family fortunes were in decline by the mid-17th century, which led to the demolition of most of the castle in 1650 except the outer gatehouse, which survived and was converted into a house known as Baconsthorpe Hall, which remained in habited until 1920 when one of the turrets collapsed. The stained glass Haydon shields were removed from the banqueting hall and added to the windows of the south aisle of Baconsthorpe Church.

Castle Highlights

Baconsthorpe Castle is a peaceful ruin nestled in remote farmlands off the beaten track. The water-filled moat remains and enough curtain wall to quickly identify the castle's layout.

One of the most prominent parts of the castle today is the outer gatehouse which is finished in dressed flint. The outer gatehouse was the only part of the castle for which the license to crenelate was obtained in 1561, yet it is entirely void of defensive features. Behind the outer gatehouse and across the outer court are the remains of the massive three-story inner gatehouse. Although it is a formidable structure, it was built more for comfort than defense, as it has windows and no gun loops.

Baconsthorpe Castle is open to the public and free to visit. It is a nice place for a picnic; exploring should take at least an hour or two. To make a full day, Castle Acre is only 30 miles from Baconsthorpe.

Baconsthorpe Castle is also haunted.