Notes on the Lecture about Historic Castles in Britain

Hever Castle

• Historic Overview

  • Remarkable historic house in Britain with 700 years of history.
  • Original site: Timber motte and bailey castle in the 13th century.
  • Significant renovations in 1271 under King Edward I, including a stone wall and gatehouse.
  • 14th century additions: crenellated walls, towers, moat, great hall.

• Notable Residents

  • William de Hever (original owner).
  • Fynes family in the 15th century.
  • Boleyn family:
    • Geoffrey Boleyn bought the castle in 1462.
    • Thomas Boleyn raised Anne Boleyn and her siblings here.
    • Anne Boleyn became Henry VIII's second wife.
  • Shift to Henry VIII in 1540, gave it to Anne of Cleves post-annulment.

• William Waldorf Astor's Renovation

  • Rich American who refurbished Hever in the early 20th century.
  • Restored as a Tudor fortress with ornate oak paneling and portraits.
  • Addressed flooding issues due to the moat.

• Key Features

  • Gatehouse with oldest portcullises in England.
  • Inner hall (original kitchen) with high ceilings.
  • Portrait of Elizabeth de Valois (included La Peregrina pearl).
  • Gilt bronze clock given to Anne Boleyn by Henry VIII.

• Stanford

  • Drawing Room converted by Astor for entertaining.
  • Dining Room used for Boleyn family gatherings; notable gilt lock of Henry VIII.
  • Anne Boleyn's bedroom with personal possessions, including prayer books.

• Staircase Gallery

  • Portrait of Mary, Queen of Scots.
  • Long Gallery with 18 original portraits depicting historical drama.

• Gardens

  • Astor's landscaping project, including maze and Italian garden.

Windsor Castle

• Historical Significance

  • One of Queen's favorite residences; longest royal palace in Europe.
  • Built in 1066 by Normans; strategic location by River Thames.

• Curator Insights

  • George IV's modernization efforts in the 19th century.
  • Gothic style entrance by George IV, blending medieval and modern aesthetics.

• Royal Heritage

  • Key figures associated: Edward III, Charles II, Queen Victoria.
  • Importance of the castle in royal ceremonies and history.

Arundel Castle

• Overview

  • Established in 1067; significant historical residence.
  • Home to the Dukes of Norfolk for generations; major expansions over time.
  • Located strategically to control surrounding areas.

• Architecture

  • Mott and Bailey defensive structure; stone keep added in 12th century.
  • Distinct architectural features and historical significance.

• Historical Events

  • Survived multiple sieges; role in English and civil wars.
  • Renovation efforts during 19th century to preserve its heritage.

Hay Castle

• Historical Context

  • Significant location in the Welsh Marches; symbolic of English and Welsh conflicts.
  • Built in the late 11th century, serving as a defensive stronghold.

• Recent Restoration

  • Acquired in 2011 by a local charity; uncovering new historical artifacts.
  • Combination of medieval and modern architectural styles.

Harlech Castle

• Overview

  • Built in the late 13th century on a strategic rock formation.
  • Key site during significant civil wars; location of notable sieges.

• Cultural Impact

  • Influenced art and literature; significant in Welsh national identity.
  • Continued military relevance in 20th century.

Chillingham Castle

• Haunted Reputation

  • Known for its ghost stories; documented by Lady Leonora Tankerville in the late 19th century.
  • Has experienced numerous ghost sightings and paranormal activities.

• Current Ownership

  • Renovated and maintained by descendants of the original family.
  • A mix of historical significance and ghost tourism.

Coastal Fortifications

• Hurst Castle

  • Built in the 1540s as part of Henry VIII's defense strategy against invasions.
  • Recent damage due to erosion; highlights the need for preservation efforts.

• Other Castles

  • Yarmouth Castle: Smaller fort built from stone sourced from a dismantled monastery.
  • West Cowes Castle: Now a yacht club but originally a fortification.
  • Calshot Castle: Important site for military operations through centuries, protecting Southampton.

• Significance of Coastal Fortifications

  • Part of a larger network to protect English shores from invasion.
  • Evolution of military architecture from the 16th century to modern times.