Orford Castle, Suffolk,

Orford Castle was built between 1165 and 1173 by Henry II of England to consolidate royal power in the region. The well-preserved keep is of a unique design and probably based on Byzantine architecture. The keep stands among the earth-covered remains of the outer fortifications.

Orford Castle is associated with the story of the Wild Man of Orford. According to legend, a hirsute, naked wild man, was caught in the nets of local fishermen around 1167. He was brought back to the castle where he was held, questioned and tortured. He said nothing, and behaved in a wild manner throughout. The wild man escaped after 6 months. Later accounts described the captive as a merman, and the incident appears to have encouraged the growth in "wild men" carvings on local baptismal fonts.

There are picnic benches in the grounds and there is a hot drinks machine in the shop.

(Photograph courtesy of Trish & Chris Seymour).

Opening Times

Opening days and tmes vary throughout the year. Please check the website.

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Ticket Prices

Adults: £5.60
Children: £3.40
Concessions: £5.00
Family Ticket: £14.60
EH Member: Free

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Disabled Facilities

Access to the keep is via a steeply inclined and stepped tarmac path followed by 21 steps to the admissions/shop. There is a wide, even spiral staircase to upper floors, roof, Orford Museum and basement. There are some difficult steps to other areas. The grounds are grassed with some steep inclines.

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More Information

Telephone: 01394 450472

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