Elsdon Castle

What it’s like

A steep short climb up to a Norman motte and bailey mound, with the earthworks themselves the whole point of the visit.

This is a proper lump of a mound rather than a castle with walls and towers left standing. What you get is the earthworks of a Norman motte and bailey, and the fun for kids is really the climb itself, imagining knights and siege engines on a hill that's been sat there for centuries.

The path up is steep, so this isn't one for a buggy or for tiny legs who'll want carrying most of the way. Older children who like a proper scramble and a view at the top will get more out of it than toddlers, who might tire of it halfway up.

There's a small parking area on the corner of the road with room for a handful of cars, so if you're planning to go on a nice weekend it's worth getting there early rather than hoping for a space. Once you're up there, there isn't much in the way of facilities, so this works best as a quick stop on a longer day out rather than the main event.

Need to know

Best for

Better for older kids who can manage a steep climb than toddlers

Parking

Small parking area on corner of road with space for a few cars

• The path up is steep, so wear proper shoes rather than trying it in sandals.
• Parking is limited to a handful of spaces, so a busy day could mean circling for a spot.
• There's little to see beyond the mound itself, so it's a short stop rather than a half day out.

Plan your visit

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