Essex’s fortified venue
Hedingham Castle is a unique example of an intact Norman keep, and it hosts events ranging from historical re-enactments to weddings
Located in Essex, Hedingham Castle was built c.1100 with its keep being constructed around 1140. It is prominently positioned on a hill above the village of Castle Hedingham, which is near the county borders of Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. Queen Matilda, the consort of King Stephen (r.1135-54) died at the castle in 1152 and it was besieged twice during the reign of King John in the early 13th century. The seat of the de Vere family for centuries, Hedingham was at one time owned by Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, who some believe to be the writer of the works attributed to William Shakespeare.
The Norman keep is now the only medieval structure of the castle that has survived but it is considered to be one of the best preserved buildings of its kind in England. It has since been used as a film and TV location for productions such as the BBC’S Ivanhoe and A History of Britain.
Hedingham is still a private home but the keep and grounds are open to the public. Educational visits take place throughout the year and it holds frequent events such as plays, car shows and historical re-enactments. The castle is also used for weddings, parties, exclusive hire and corporate retreats.