In 1635 Corfe Castle was bought by Sir John Bankes.įollowing the death of her husband during the Civil War, Lady Mary Bankes successfully defended the castle during a siege in 1643. In 1572 Queen Elizabeth I sold it to her Lord Chancellor, Sir Christopher Hatton, who converted it into a prestigious home, complete with fine furniture, tapestries and silk cushions. There would have been a garden and a kitchen to grow and prepare food for the king’s table.įrom the 14th to the 16th centuries, Corfe Castle was less important as a royal stronghold and often fell into disrepair. King John also turned Corfe Castle into a comfortable royal residence. During his troubled reign the castle was often used as a prison, where many prisoners met their deaths. Between 11 he added a great many defences. Much of the Isle of Purbeck was a Royal Forest so the hunting of game without royal permission was punishable by death.Ĭorfe was one of King John’s favourite castles. It was served by the surrounding community in return for the use of homes and land, as well as shelter in the Castle in times of trouble. While stag hunting in the Purbeck forest, Edward paid a visit to Corfe, where Elfryda is said to have offered him a goblet of wine, then treacherously had him stabbed in the back while he drank it.Ĭorfe Castle was begun by William the Conqueror soon after his arrival in Britain in 1066. In 978, before the present Castle was built, legend has it that King Edward the Martyr was murdered at Corfe by his stepmother who wanted to put her own son, Ethelred ‘the Unready’, on the throne. Not surprisingly, therefore, Corfe Castle was a royal fortress for over 600 years. The surrounding agricultural lands and forests were rich, and could be used to provide food and resources for the Castle. Positioned strategically in the gap between the Purbeck hills, it was perfect for defending inland Dorset against attack from the sea. Dogs: welcome on a short leadĬorfe Castle has had a long and eventful history. Living History events and jester fun days.
Enid Blyton's birthday celebration (11 August). Spot the 'murder holes' and count the arrow loops. Discover how royalty, warfare and nature have shaped the castle. Uncover the secrets of Dorset's iconic medieval monument. Note: steep, uneven slopes, steps and sudden drops. The crumbling ruins and subtle invasion by plants and animals, along with its almost ethereal quality as light and weather change, all contribute to the unique atmosphere of Corfe Castle. With its fallen walls and secret places, it is a place to explore, a giant playground for children of all ages. The demolition of the castle in 1646 by the Parliamentarians marked the end of a rich history as both fortress and royal residence. One of Britain's most majestic ruins and once a controlling gateway through the Purbeck Hills, the castle boasts breathtaking views and several waymarked walks. The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5EZ