Farnham Castle

Farnham Castle stands on a commanding hillside overlooking the town of Farnham and the surrounding countryside. The castle comprises two distinct elements: the impressive Norman motte and bailey with its 12th-century brick-built keep, and the substantial palace buildings constructed by successive bishops of Winchester who held the site as their country residence. The keep, dating to around 1138, is one of the finest surviving examples of Norman architecture in southern England, while the palace ranges, built principally in the 16th and 17th centuries, reflect the grandeur expected of high-ranking ecclesiastical lords.

The site is managed as a heritage property, with the castle grounds open to the public and the buildings occasionally available for viewing. Visitors can explore the earthworks of the original fortification and enjoy extensive views across the Hampshire landscape from the hilltop setting. The castle's history spans nearly nine centuries, from its origins as a Norman military stronghold through its transformation into an episcopal palace, to its eventual decline and preservation as a heritage site. The combination of architectural periods and the dramatic topography make Farnham Castle a significant landmark within the region, and its position on the elevated ground above the town makes it a visible reference point along the journey route.