Penvensey Castle, East Sussex

Before or immediately after landing in England in 1066 William of Normandy ordered three fortifications to be built, at Pevensey in September 1066, Hastings and Dover, a few days after the battle.

Robert, Count of Mortain (half-brother to William the Conqueror of Normandy) was granted Pevensey shortly after the Norman Conquest. Mortain used the existing fort as the basis for building a castle around 1100, building a full-scale Norman castle, with a great square keep and a powerful gatehouse.

The castle was besieged by William Rufus in the Rebellion of 1088 and during a period of civil war by the forces loyal to King Stephen (1135–1141). Around 1190-1220 the present twin-towered gateway was constructed. A stone circuit wall was erected around the inner bailey by Peter of Savoy around 1250, with three D-shaped towers. A third siege occurred in 1264, when Henry III's supporters took refuge at the castle following the Battle of Lewes and were besieged by Simon de Montfort.

During later times Queen Elizabeth I ordered destruction of the ancient castle but this was ignored. During the period of interregnum under Oliver Cromwell efforts were again made to destroy it but luckily only a few stones were removed.

During the Second World War the castle was used by the home guard and as a military camp for anti-aircraft troops.

Opening Times

Opening Days and times vary throughout the year. Please check the website.

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Ticket Prices

Adults: £4.80
Children: £2.90
Concessions: £4.30
EH Member: Free
Family Ticket: £12.50

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Disabled Facilities

Access to castle and grounds: Inner and outer bailey accessible to wheelchair users via mainly impacted gravel paths and some rough grass; assistance may be necessary. Many steps to the towers. Some disabled visitors can use steps to towers and dungeons with assistance; handrails in north and south towers. Benches provided. Wheelchair users must retrace their steps to avoid exit turnstiles.

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More Information

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