Rufus Castle, Dorset


1st June 2017


Also known as Bow and Arrow castle

 Evidence of a Saxon defence work previously
11th century - Castle constructed for William II, to protect the vulnerable Church Ope cove from enemy invasion
1142 - Robert, Earl of Gloucester captured the castle from King Stephen for the Empress Maud
1250s - Richard de Clare, Duke of Gloucester, had a licence to crenellate the castle
1432-1460 - the current ruins are thought to date back from 15th century, therefore possibly rebuilt during this time, funded by Richard Duke of York
1539-1541 - With the construction of Portland castle, Rufus castle fell into disuse and was prone to cliff erosion and collapse
1800 - John Penn, a politician and writer, became owner of the castle and enclosed it from the public

 You can only view the exterior of the castle, and even then unfortunately cannot view close up. It is a shame that you cannot explore more of the castle, we would've of loved to. Beautiful views however, if you walk under the bridge (in picture). 

 Privately owned, exterior viewed only
Parking - park in the museum car park, known as Church Ope. The car park is signposted but entrance well hidden in the trees! Cross the road and go down Church Ope Road, the castle is at the end of the road/footpath
No facilities
No guidebooks or information
Assuming dogs allowed as part of coast path?

N & K 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Old Wardour Castle, Wiltshire

Image
30th May 2017 1390s - built for John, 5th Lord Lovell, this is a hexagonal castle! 1578 - the castle is modernised by Sir Matthew Arundel Civil War - during an attempt to reclaim the castle the owner partially blew up the castle! The damage caused was never repaired, partly because the lands/castle were confiscated from Henry Arundel after the Civil War 1700s - New Wardour castle is erected and the old castle becomes a popular, romantic ruin We loved how different this castle was to anything we've seen so far. The different colour brick work is beautiful and the architecture stunning. The views of the lake are pretty and make sure you walk around the perimeter of the castle because no side is the same. Audio tour worth it! The grotto in the gardens is fun to explore (and very romantic 😉 ) .  Owned by English heritage  Own car park Small shop and toilets Guidebook and audio tour  Dogs allowed  N & K  
Read more

Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre, Kent

Image
26 th June 2015 Since the Roman invasion of Britain in 43AD until the end of their rule (410AD), the site of Richborough was used as fort. Over time it became a town – with a mansio, temples and amphitheatre – and then a port. In the late 3 rd century the site was refortified due to the threat of the Saxons. After Roman rule ended, the site was occupied by the Saxons. This site was so interesting and the ruins are impressive when you consider how old they are. We would definitely recommend the audio tour, but there are also information panels dotted around the site. The exhibition next to the shop, about Roman life, is also interesting. Unfortunately we could not find the amphitheatre so we suggest asking in the shop for exact directions! Owned by English Heritage Designated car park Dogs allowed Small shop, toilets Guidebooks, audio tours N&K 
Read more

Corfe Castle, Dorset

Image
31st May 2017 978 - Rumour has it that the site of today's Corfe Castle was the location for King Edward the Martyr's murder, by his stepmother 1086 - William the Conqueror began building the castle 1105 - Henry I is thought to be responsible for building the 23 metre tall stone keep 1106 - Henry I imprisons his brother, Robert of Normandy, at Corfe Castle, after seizing the throne 1130s - The castle finds itself in the midst of action during the Anarchy between Stephen and Matilda 1199 - 1214 - King John imprisons his niece, Princess Eleanor of Brittany at Corfe During King John's reign he was a frequent visitor to the castle, strengthening its defences and building the Gloriette 1220 - 1294 - Henry III and Edward I make several alterations to the castle, including converting from timber to stone, strengthening defences and adding towers Henry VII gifted the castle to his mother, Lady Margaret Beaufort 1509 - Lady Margaret dies and the castle is passed ba...
Read more