Framlingham Castle is one of Suffolk’s most striking historic sites — a great medieval fortress whose almost complete curtain walls still dominate the town. Cared for by English Heritage, it’s a memorable day out from Park Hotel Diss.
Walk the walls
Unusually, Framlingham has no central keep — instead you can walk almost the full circuit of its 12th-century curtain walls and thirteen towers, with wonderful views over the town and the Mere below. It’s a castle that really lets you experience medieval defences first-hand.
History and the town
The castle is closely tied to the Tudors — Mary Tudor was here when she was proclaimed queen in 1553. The town of Framlingham itself is a charming market town with independent shops, pubs and tea rooms well worth exploring.
Good to Know
- An English Heritage site — members usually visit free.
- There’s a lovely walk around the Mere beneath the castle walls.
- Check opening times and prices on the English Heritage website.
Park Hotel Diss is a comfortable base for exploring Suffolk’s castles, including Framlingham.
Image Credit
Framlingham Castle — Happy Bean Photography · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
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