Unlocking the Secrets of Henley's Missing Castle

🏰The castle was built between 1086 and 1141 and was owned by the de Montfort family, who had strong connections to the Earls of Warwick.

✨The castle likely had a range of buildings, including a great hall, chapel, and stables.

🔍Archaeological remains, such as floor tiles and stone walls, provide valuable clues about the castle's layout and construction.

🌳The castle's location on a hill outside the town of Henley in Arden provided a strategic advantage and commanding view of the surrounding landscape.

🚧The castle site is designated as a scheduled ancient monument, and strict rules govern archaeological excavations to ensure preservation.

Who owned the castle?

—The castle was owned by the de Montfort family, who were important players in medieval politics and had connections to the Earls of Warwick.

What buildings were likely present in the castle?

—The castle likely had a great hall for feasting, a chapel for worship, and stables for horses, among other buildings.

What clues have been found about the castle's layout?

—Archaeological remains, such as floor tiles and stone walls, provide valuable clues about the castle's layout and construction.

Why was the castle built on a hill?

—The castle's location on a hill outside the town of Henley in Arden provided a strategic advantage and a commanding view of the surrounding landscape.

What are the rules for excavating the castle site?

—The castle site is designated as a scheduled ancient monument, and strict rules govern archaeological excavations to ensure preservation.

00:00Introduction to the castle's history and its significance in Warwickshire.

02:30Overview of the castle's layout and possible buildings, such as the great hall and chapel.

05:15Explanation of the scheduled ancient monument status and the rules for excavation.

08:00Discovery of stone walls and floor tiles, providing valuable clues about the castle's construction.