WALLINGFORD CASTLE

Berkshire

Wallingford is the most historic town in Berkshire, and one of the most pleasant (with the usual exception in both cases of Windsor).  It was originally a Saxon Burgh and the whole town bears traces of the grid-system defences.

The Castle may have been built when William I crossed the Thames here on his way to London after landing in Sussex.  It was certainly in place by 1071.  Although the motte and earthworks are impressive, the Castle was also rebuilt heavily in stone and much of the stonework remains, including remains of the shell keep and a good deal of curtain walls.

The Castle fell into the hands of Queen Matilda during the Anarchy and three lengthy sieges by King Stephen failed to make the Castle fall.  Once more in the Civil War the Castle showed its worth by keeping a Royalist garrison safe until July 1646, when they were allowed to surrender with honour.  Alas, the Castle was subsequently "slighted" and began to fall into disrepair.

The Castle is mostly in a public park, and a good deal of the town ramparts are also visible.

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2001