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Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle - view from the moat
(c) English Heritage
View looking east towards the castle from across the mere - View looking east towards the castle from across the mere (c) Framlingham Castle - Aerial view from the west (c) Bridge and Gate Tower - Bridge and Gate Tower (c) View of the castle across the Mere - View of the castle across the Mere (c) Framlingham 17th century Poorhouse - (c) Framlingham Castle - view from the moat - (c) Poorhouse Exhibition - (c)

Framlingham is a magnificent example of a late 12th-century castle. Built by Roger Bigod, Earl of Norfolk, the castle, together with Framlingham Mere, was designed both as a stronghold and as a symbol of power and status - as befitted one of the most influential people at the court of the Plantagenet kings. Architecturally, the castle is notable for its curtain wall with mural towers, an early example of this design.

The castle fulfilled a number of roles. It was at the centre of the struggle between the Bigod barons and the Crown, and Mary Tudor mustered her supporters here in 1553, before being crowned Queen. At the end of the 16th century it was a prison: later still a poorhouse was built within the walls. Today the imposing stone walls and crenellated towers with their ornate Tudor chimneys dominate, while the grassy earthworks around the castle are subdued reminders of its outer defences. To the west, the Mere provides a stunning setting.

Please note: Entry also includes access to the Lanman Trust's Museum of local history.

What are the opening times?

DatesOpening TimesOpening Days
18 Mar - 30 Sep10am-6pmMon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 - 31 Oct10am-5pmMon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
1 Nov - 31 Mar10am - 4pmMon, Thu, Fri, Sat, & Sun.
Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan  
Please note last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.  
The property may close early if an event is booked, please ring in advance for details.  

How much does it cost?

Adult:
£5.50
Children:
£2.80
Concession:
£4.40
English Heritage Members:
Other:
Family Ticket: £13.80

How do I get there?

Address:
Suffolk - IP13 9BP
Road Access:
In Framlingham on B1116
Train Access:
Wickham Market 61⁄2 miles; Saxmundham 7 miles
Bus Access:
First 63, from rIpswich (passes Woodbridge railway station);Beeston 118/9 from Ipswich
Map Location:
Telephone:
01728 724189, Local Tourist Information: Woodbridge: 01394 382240

What facilities are available?

Facilities Available:
ParkingSuitable for people with disabilitiesExhibitionMuseumGuidebooksDogs allowed on leadsAudio tours (included in admission price)ShopEventsHazardousFamily LearningAvailable to hire for corporate and private eventsAdmission free for Overseas Vistor Pass holdersMale ToiletsFemale Toilets
Facilities Details:
Toilets: accessible WC in Visitor Admissions Building.
Shop: Level access.
Access:
Access to castle: All ground floor areas within castle walls are level impacted gravel surfaces. Benches provided. Steep spiral stairs to upper floors and wall walk. Two wheelchairs available.
Exhibition: Level access (within Poorhouse).
Grounds: Earth works beyond the castle comprise of rough tracks and very undulating ground.
Parking:
100m from entrance on gravel path and drive. Parking nearer the entrance can be arranged for disabled visitors: please telephone in advance.
Visually Impaired Visitors:
General Braille guide covering historic properties available on site for visually impaired visitors to borrow.
Hearing Impaired Visitors:
Interactive audio tour with hearing loop included in admission price.

What facilities are available for groups?

Group Discount:
15% discount for groups of 11 or more plus a free place for every additional 20 paying passengers. Free entry for coach driver and tour leader
Coach Parking Facilities:
There is no parking available for coaches but there is space to drop off passengers and return for pick-up close to the entrance
Group Booking:
Please contact the Site Supervisor on ++44 (0)1728 724189. Guided tours usually available if booked.
Average Length of Visit:
2-3 hours

Further Info

Dogs on leads allowed in the grounds and on the ground floor only; Many pubs and tearooms in Framlingham
Disabled access (grounds and ground floor only). Disabled toilet in Visitor Admissions Building.
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