Exploring Castle Rising with kids

I can’t resist a castle. I just adore exploring the ruins of an ancient castle and whilst we were away in North Norfolk recently we found plenty. I’ve already shared our trip to Castle Acre Castle and Castle Acre Priory – both amazing historic sites to visit. Today I wanted to tell you a little more abut exploring Castle Rising with kids.

Exploring Castle Rising with kids

Castle Rising is a picturesque little village near to Kings Lynn, which was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1066. The building of the castle was begun in 1138 by the Norman lord William d’Albini for his new wife, the widow of Henry I. In the 14th century it became the luxurious residence of Queen Isabella, widow (and alleged murderess) of Edward II.

Today it is one of the largest, best preserved and most lavishly decorated keeps in England, surrounded by 20 acres of mighty earthworks. Castle Rising is owned and managed by Lord Howard of Rising but we got in for free using our English Heritage membership cards.

We parked the car and walked into the castle grounds. There are lots of ditches and banks before you cross over a bridge and into the castle. You are met with the most impressive castle keep.

My children loved running around as it was a huge space to explore. We found the entrance to the keep and they really enjoyed seeing what was inside it.

It is mainly in ruins but some of the rooms have been restored. They loved throwing a stone down the well to hear how deep it was.

There were very limited signs around the place and we hadn’t bought a guide book so just made it up as we explored. We walked around the ruined walls of the bailey. Well, my youngest rolled down them 🙂 We found the original castle chapel built into one of the walls of the bailey.

The views into the little village were beautiful even on a misty day. After we had seen all of the castle we popped into the little village. It was planned at the same time the castle and its deer park were built in the 12th century. We found a lovely little (thankfully modern) tea shop which was the perfect place to warm up with a hot drink and some cake.

Castle Rising village is also home to the parish church of St Laurence, which dates back to the Norman period, as well as Trinity Hospital, a 16th century almshouses.

It’s such a lovely place and well worth a visit, especially if you have kids with a lot of energy! Don’t forget to check out my other travel posts about places to take children in Norfolk:

Castle Acre Priory

Castle Acre Castle