Geograph - photograph every grid square

View east along north wall, towards a section of east wall. Originally a Norman earthwork motte and bailey fortress that had been built within the stone walls of the Roman fort of Gariannonum, dated to the late 3rd century. The first recorded motte in England dates from 1051, built by French castle builders for the English king in Hereford; by the death of William the Conqueror in 1087 they were a common feature. At Burgh Castle, the motte with surrounding ditch was raised over the wall at the southwestern corner, and a rampart supporting a timber palisade was constructed on the western side. During the 18th century the motte was levelled and only fragments of the earthworks remain. The site, owned by English Heritage, is freely accessible; it offers magnificent views across the marshes extending westwards.
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