Norwich Castle

Hugo had a badminton match with the Herts County team in Norwich today. So I had a walk around Norwich again. Last visited November 14th 2010.

Norwich Castle was founded by William the Conqueror ( good name ) sometime between 1066 and 1075. Originally a simple motte and bailey structure.

Early in the 12th century, King Henry I built the stone castle, adding this huge ornate keep. Within the keep, to the north side, was the Great Hall. Where the day's business, feasts and entertaining took place. The royal quarters, to the south, comprised a large parlour, bedrooms and a private chapel.

In the early 13th century, towers and a gatehouse were added, with a drawbridge and a stone bridge spanning the dry ditch.

This is one of 48 castles mentioned in the Domesday Survey of 1086. Used as a prison from the 14th century.

During my walk around Norwich I came across Cow Tower. The first gun tower of its type in England, built 1398-99. It seems that the 14th century saw massive changes in military tactics. The old Castles were vulnerable to artillery fire and therefore became redundant ( hence used as a prison ) and the new military defences were of smaller, strategically placed gun emplacements with just enough room to house the garrison of gunners.

It was a lovely day, the daffodils were out and lots of people walking around in the sunshine.

Hugo won all his matches and the Herts U/15 team won the match 19 - 1 and go through to the finals of the Shires League. They were all very happy.

I have tried to photograph this castle before with little success. It is a bit of a box on a hill. I had more success this time.

Hope you all had a good weekend.