  |
 |
 |
 The marvellous castle brooding on a hilltop dominates this agreeable Market Town as it has since Roger Bigod 2nd Earl of Norfolk, built it in the 12th century (his grandfather built the first a century earlier but this wooden construction was soon demolished). The Earls and Dukes of Norfolk, the Howards, were here for many generations before moving to Arundel in 1635. The castle is in remarkably good condition, partly because it was rarely attacked - though King John put it under siege in 1215. Its most famous occupant was Mary Tudor who was in residence when proclaimed Queen in 1553. In the reign of Elizabeth I it was used as a prison for defiant priests and in the 17th century after being bequeathed to Pembroke College, Cambridge it saw service as a home and school for local paupers. Nine of the castle's 13 towers are accessible and the climb up the spiral staircase and walk round the battlements are well worth the effort. On one side the view is of the meres, which is a bird sanctuary. In the north wing is the Lanman Museum devoted to farm and craft tools and domestic bygones.
Framlingham's market place with its hotels, banks and shops.  Colourful cottages in Castle Street. |
|
|
|
|
||
