Stafford Castle and Visitor Centre

About

An impressive example of the motte and bailey system. The site itself extends to over 26 acres and consists of Keep, inner bailey, outer bailey, woodland, herb garden, visitor centre and car park. Stafford Castle is considered one of the best surviving examples of Norman earthworks in the country.  A programme of archaeological excavations has gradually revealed many of its secrets. Visitors can follow an informative trail of interpretation panels to discover the castle's history.

First built as a hugh timber fortrest in 1100 AD by Robert de Toeni, (later known as Robert of Stafford) under the orders of William the Conqueror in the Norman period, Stafford Castle has dominated the local skyline for over 900 years.  Stafford Castle enjoyed mixed fortunes throughout the medieval period. In the 14th century Ralph, a founder member of the Order of the Garter, became the1st Earl of Stafford. He ordered the building of a stone keep on top of the motte in 1347.  In 1444 Humphrey Stafford was created Duke of Buckingham and the castle entered its heyday. By the early 17th century however the condition of the castle had deteriorated and during the English Civil War the Parliamentary Committee in Stafford ordered it to be demolished.   Extensively rebuilt by the Jerningham family in the Gothic Revival Style in 1813, the castle fell into ruin through the 20th century and abandoned again in the 1950s it became derelict.  Now after recent restoration work and a programme of archaeological investigation Stafford Castle together with the surrounding grounds, give visitors a fascinating insight to the 900 year history of this important site.

It is the site of the Shakespearean Festival every year.