The Surrey castle visited by kings, bishops... and ghosts?
FIT for Kings, Queens and military plotting, Farnham castle has certainly impressed its historic visitors.
However, people now can also make the most of this special location. Just a 20-minute walk from Farnham station, on the appropriately named Castle Street, a trip around the Keep will show off 900 years of history, and potentially a ghost or two. The Great British Ghost Tour states there have been several sightings at the castle, including a dancing girl and some monks. Apparently other visitors have heard footsteps or felt they were not alone.
Whether the supernatural are present or not, the castle certainly has a varied history. The Stone Keep has been dated as far back as 1138, but it could have been earlier. However, this original structure did not last for long as Henry II demolished it in 1154. But Farnham was not without for long. Around 50 years later the Shell Keep you can see today was built around the mound area.
Nowadays a visit to the Keep will provide magnificent views over Farnham and the Surrey Hills. The Keep itself is closed in January, but open throughout the rest of the year. You can also visit the Bishop’s Palace. Guided tours take place every Wednesday between 2pm and 4pm and cost £5 for adults and are free for students and those under 18.
The Palace has a very royal history and was visited by monarchs such as
Henry VIII and Queen Victoria. It is made up of a number of interlinked buildings such as the Great Hall, Stone Hall and medieval kitchen.
Its royal history doesn’t mean it was only used for lesuire. Farnham Castle also played a key role in the English Civil War, and at times was under the control of both the Royalists and Parliamentarians.
It was also active during WW2, and was set up as a Camouflage Development and Training Centre.
For those who want to learn more about the site’s history, The Exhibition Room is open most days (except over Christmas and New Year). Here you can see a computer display showing the stages of construction as well as more information about the Bishops that lived there.
There is no need to book. Opening hours for the Keep and Exhibition Room are from 9am to 5pm (or dusk if earlier) on weekdays, and from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Last entry is half an hour before closing. There is limited parking is available for ‘blue badge’ holders. Opening days and tours can occasionally vary, and admission may be weather related.
More information can be found at www.farnham-castle.com.