Castle Rising

The fine keep at Castle Rising was built between 1138 and 1140, although alterations were made to fireplaces and entrances at a later date.

Massive earthworks were dug around the keep and were topped by walls. Although the walls have disappeared the earthworks are still impressive today. When Castle Rising was built in the 12th century it was accessible from the sea. Paintings from the 18th century still show ships in the back ground. Today the Wash is several miles away.

The castle is famous as being the last home of Queen Isabella wife of Edward II.

The king was murdered at Berkeley Castle in 1327 on orders of Isabella and her lover Roger Mortimer. The heir to the throne, Edward III, was only 15 years old and for several years Isabella and Mortimer were able to rule the country through their power over the young king. However, after three years Edward III began to assert his authority and in 1330 had Mortimer tried for treason and hanged.

Although Isabella was just guilty she was spared trial and banished to Castle Rising where she spent the last 30 years of her life. In her old age she joined an order of nuns called the Poor Clares.

Today several rooms at Castle Rising are still in a good state of repair including a chapel with a wall cupboard and a fine wall passage.