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Bodiam Castle

📍 East Sussex, England

4.5 ★★★★½ 8,500 reviews

About

Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century moated castle near Robertsbridge in East Sussex, England. It was built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge with the permission of Richard II, ostensibly to defend the area against French invasion during the Hundred Years' War. Of quadrangular plan, Bodiam Castle has no keep, having its various chambers built around the outer defensive walls and inner courts. Its corners and entrance are marked by towers, and topped by battlements. Its structure, details and situation in an artificial watery landscape indicate that display was an important aspect of the castle's design as well as defence. It was the home of the Dalyngrigge family and the centre of the manor of Bodiam.

Getting There

🚂 Robertsbridge Station

Southeastern trains from London Charing Cross (75 min). Castle is 5 miles — taxi or cycle.

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🚂 Kent & East Sussex Railway

Heritage steam railway from Tenterden stops at Bodiam station, right by the castle. Seasonal service.

🅿️ National Trust Car Park

Free for NT members. £5 for non-members. Small car park that fills quickly in summer.

Terrain & Accessibility

🚶 Mostly Flat⚠️ Uneven Interior👟 Sturdy Footwear💺 Seating in Grounds🏛️ Spiral Stairs in Tower

The approach and exterior are flat and accessible. The interior is a ruin with uneven ground, steps, and narrow passages. Only one tower can be climbed (spiral stairs). The moat walk is flat and accessible. Not fully wheelchair accessible inside the castle walls.