Framlingham Castle

Things To See and do

What you need to know

We've made some changes to help keep you safe, and things might be a little different when you visit. We may need to continue making changes as we follow continually evolving Government advice, so we recommend checking this information before your visit. Here's everything you need to know.

  • Do we need to Book?

    Advance booking is now essential. We have introduced limits on visitor numbers to help keep everyone safe, and you won’t be able to visit without your booking confirmation. If you’re a Member, your ticket will be free, but you still need to book in advance. Make sure you've read our ticketing FAQ before you book.

    Book Tickets

    Booking FAQs

  • What changes have you made to your facilities?

    Cafe - The cafe will be open for light refreshments of hot and cold drinks as well as cakes with a one way system in place.

    Shop - The shop will be open with a one-way system in place.

    Toilets - Our toilets are open as usual. Our accessible toilet is available on request to ensure Covid 19 cleaning measures are met. Additional hand sanitising stations will be available on site.

    Plan your Visit

  • How Are You Keeping Us Safe?

    We've made a number of changes to help keep you safe. Although things might be a little different when you visit, you’ll still be able to enjoy exploring the places where history really happened. And you’ll still be given a warm and safe welcome by our friendly – if socially distant – staff and volunteers.

    You can visit our reopening page for information on general safety measures we've taken to help keep you safe.

    General Safety Information

  • Do I need to wear a face covering?

    Face coverings must be worn in all indoor areas. We won't be able to provide you with a face covering, so please come prepared so you don't miss out.

Two boys enjoying the wall walk at Framlingham Castle

Wall Walk

Embark on a journey of discovery around the magnificent wall walk. At a spectacular 10.5 metres high and 2.3 metres thick, this curtain wall has stood for more than 800 years - look down if you dare…

The castle's curtain wall has been carefully conserved so that future generations are able to enjoy spectacular views of Framlingham mere and surrounding countryside. Take the opportunity to count our chimneys, these are the oldest surviving 12th century and Tudor chimneys in the country. 

Workhouse

Take a look inside Framlingham's workhouse, the only building remaining inside the castle walls today. Built around the shell of the castle's medieval great hall, the workhouse provided works and lodging for the town's paupers from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Visit our exhibition space where you can discover more about the history of Framlingham Castle and its former residents, including Mary Tudor who was proclaimed Queen of England at the castle in 1553. 

Hands on activities

Test your knowledge in the 'Who Eats What?' game inspired by Duchess Margaret Brotherton, create plates of food and place them next to the class that would have eaten them. Challenge the monarch by playing 'Spin the King' to see their fate or try on everything from a Norman helmet to workhouse cap in the Hats Through the Ages dressing up section.

The castle is under siege, join the defence in our 'Under Attack' family trail, avaliable to puchase for £1 per trail from the admissions kiosk.

Shop

Browse the Tudor chimney inspired shelves and take home your own piece of history in the shop where you can buy chutneys and jams, wines, beers, books, garden gifts and more. 

Castle Café

Get a taste of Tudor life by trying Tudor inspired dishes in our café. Try Tarte Owte of Lent, a Tudor titled tart, consisting of all the things you're not allowed to eat during lent - cheese, cream and eggs. Fill yourself up on Tudor staple pottage, a vegetable soup flavoured with herbs and thickened with oats or grains, served with bread and cheese.

If these timeless Tudor dishes aren't making your mouth water, choose from our selection of regional hot mains, summer salads, sandwiches, baguettes, cakes and bakes. 

'step into englands story