Farnham Castle

From Norman Stronghold to Bishop's Seat

Farnham Castle was founded in 1138 by Henri de Blois, Bishop of Winchester and grandson of William the Conqueror, during the turbulent civil war known as the Anarchy. The original tower was a statement of power, but it proved too much for Henry II, who ordered its destruction in 1155. The bishops rebuilt on the same site, raising the shell keep that still crowns the motte today and developing the palace buildings below into a residence that would serve successive bishops of Winchester for over 800 years.

The castle attracted royal attention throughout the medieval period. Elizabeth I was a frequent guest, visiting at least six times between 1568 and 1602. Cardinal Henry Beaufort, who presided over the trial of Joan of Arc, lived here in the early 15th century. By the 17th century, Parliamentarian forces seized the castle during the Civil War, and its military role faded.

What to See and Do

The visit naturally splits into two parts. The Norman keep, managed by English Heritage, sits atop a steep motte and is free to enter. The shell walls, buttress turrets and shallow gatehouse date from the late 12th century, and the climb rewards visitors with panoramic views across Farnham and the Surrey hills. A free exhibition near the entrance traces the castle's 900-year history with archaeological finds and photographs.

The Bishop's Palace below is a different experience entirely. Guided tours, available on Wednesday afternoons, lead through the Great Hall with its impressive timber roof, the Tudor brick kitchen, the chapel and a series of rooms that chart the evolution from medieval fortress to ecclesiastical residence. The five acres of gardens surrounding the palace are well maintained, with herbaceous borders, mature trees and lawns that make a pleasant extension to any visit.

Getting There and Practical Tips

Farnham is an easy day trip from London. Direct trains from Waterloo take around an hour, and from Farnham station the castle is a 15-minute uphill walk through the attractive town centre. If driving, the A31 brings you directly to Farnham, with parking available at nearby Farnham Park or in the town's pay-and-display car parks.

The keep is open daily from February to Christmas Eve, but the Bishop's Palace tours run only on Wednesday afternoons from 2pm. If the palace interior is important to you, plan accordingly. Wear sturdy shoes for the motte — the path is steep and can be slippery in wet weather. There is no cafe on site, but Farnham's town centre is a short walk away and has plenty of options for lunch.