HISTORY Framlingham and Orford Castles
HISTORY Framlingham and Orford Castles
HISTORY Framlingham and Orford Castles
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ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT <strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suffolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 1|10<br />
FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE<br />
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND<br />
Prehistory, Roman, <strong>and</strong> Britons, English<br />
<strong>and</strong> Vikings<br />
Although there were Romano British<br />
settlements nearby there is no direct<br />
evidence for early settlement at<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong>.<br />
In the 1950s archaeologists found a<br />
cemetery close by what is now the<br />
entrance to the castle. Pottery found<br />
with the 50 skeletons of men, women<br />
<strong>and</strong> children date to the mid Saxon<br />
period <strong>and</strong> the burials certainly predate<br />
the castle by some time.<br />
The Middle Ages<br />
In c1100 Roger Bigod was given l<strong>and</strong> at<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> by Henry I. Roger Bigod<br />
built the first castle at <strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
this was probably a fortified mound<br />
surrounded by a timber palisade.<br />
Roger’s son Hugh Bigod used the civil<br />
war between Stephen <strong>and</strong> Matilda to<br />
gain more power. Originally siding with<br />
Stephen, Hugh rebelled against him<br />
twice. Despite this, Stephen created<br />
him Earl of Norfolk in 1141 <strong>and</strong> this<br />
was confirmed by Matilda when Hugh<br />
switched sides.<br />
In 1154 High supported Henry as he<br />
took the throne. Around this time<br />
Hugh started to build the first stone<br />
building at the castle.<br />
ORFORD CASTLE<br />
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
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Prehistory, Roman, <strong>and</strong> Britons, English<br />
<strong>and</strong> Vikings<br />
There is some evidence from<br />
archaeological finds that the area was<br />
lived in during the Bronze Age, Iron<br />
Age Roman <strong>and</strong> Saxon periods<br />
The Middle Ages<br />
Documents from the first half of the<br />
12th century mention a market <strong>and</strong> a<br />
causeway suggesting a village, probably<br />
dependant on fishing, existed around<br />
1100.<br />
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ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 2|10<br />
FRAMLIN GHAM C AST LE<br />
By 1157 Henry II seemed worried<br />
about the amount of power held by<br />
Hugh lost the castle again in 1173 when<br />
he joined a rebellion against the King.<br />
Henry ordered the walls of the castle<br />
to be destroyed <strong>and</strong> Hugh died while<br />
on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.<br />
By 1189 Roger Bigod II had gained back<br />
his father’s title <strong>and</strong> started rebuilding<br />
the castle. Roger built the strong<br />
curtain walls that you can see today.<br />
O RFO RD C AST LE<br />
Hugh Bigod <strong>and</strong> he conscated his l<strong>and</strong>s<br />
<strong>and</strong> installed royal mercenaries at the<br />
castle.<br />
The village was part of Thomas<br />
In 1165 <strong>Framlingham</strong> was returned to Becket’s estate until it was removed<br />
Hugh but at the same time Henry II during his quarrels with Henry II in<br />
started to build his own stronghold at 1164. Becket ed to France <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Orford</strong>.<br />
concerns about a possible invasion gave<br />
Henry a reason to build a castle in<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> - as well as his concern over<br />
the inuence of the Bigods<br />
BO O K IN G AN D SIT E IN FO RMAT IO N<br />
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Henry II decided to build his own<br />
stronghold in Suolk. Records from this<br />
time (pipe rolls) show that this was one<br />
of the most expensive castles ever built<br />
costing £1413 against the annual crown<br />
income of £18000.<br />
The location was specically chosen to<br />
place a wedge between <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
Castle <strong>and</strong> the coast. It had a great<br />
vantage point from the top of the keep<br />
<strong>and</strong> was easy to provision via l<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
coast.<br />
Henry’s architect <strong>and</strong> engineer also<br />
drained the marshes in the area,<br />
increasing the amount of farml<strong>and</strong><br />
available. The new castle was designed<br />
to intimidate the Bigod <strong>and</strong> restore<br />
order to the area. The keep was<br />
nished in around 1166 followed by the<br />
walls in 1168.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 3|10<br />
FRAMLIN GHAM C AST LE<br />
The Bigods continued to quarrel with<br />
crown <strong>and</strong> Roger <strong>and</strong> his son Hugh<br />
were the rst two barons enlisted to<br />
enforce the Magna Carta. King John<br />
was so angry that in 1216 he laid siege<br />
to the castle. After two days the castle<br />
surrendered <strong>and</strong> Roger lost<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> again.<br />
After Roger died in 1225 the estate<br />
passed to his gr<strong>and</strong>son Hugh III. He<br />
rebelled against Henry III in 1258 but<br />
managed to retain his l<strong>and</strong>s.<br />
Roger Bigod V inherited the castle in<br />
1270. He made repairs to <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
<strong>and</strong> built extensively at his other home<br />
of Chepstow Castle. This lavish<br />
spending eventually left him bankrupt<br />
<strong>and</strong> he was force to leave <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
Castle to Edward I in his will.<br />
The castle was later gifted to Thomas<br />
Mowbray in 1397 when he was made<br />
Duke of Norfolk. In 1476 the castle<br />
passes to another powerful family - the<br />
Howards, through marriage.<br />
T udor<br />
In 1483 John Howard was created<br />
Duke of Norfolk by Richard III. John<br />
died leading troops at the battle of<br />
Bosworth <strong>and</strong> the castle was again<br />
conscated by the crown. John’s son,<br />
Thomas, eventually won back the<br />
castle. He led troops at the battle of<br />
Flodden Field.<br />
O RFO RD C AST LE<br />
BO O K IN G AN D SIT E IN FO RMAT IO N<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@ english-heritage.org.uk<br />
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In 1217 the castle was briey lost to<br />
the French <strong>and</strong> slightly damaged. Henry<br />
III repaired the castle.<br />
In the 1260s <strong>Orford</strong> Castle changed<br />
h<strong>and</strong>s many times during the second<br />
Baron’s war. The castle was eventually<br />
won back by the crown <strong>and</strong> given to<br />
the future Edward 1.<br />
Edward I visited <strong>Orford</strong> in 1277. As the<br />
Bigod threat waned the crown lost<br />
interest in the castle <strong>and</strong> it was leased<br />
out <strong>and</strong> eventually sold to the Earl of<br />
Suolk in 1336<br />
T udor<br />
The harbour at <strong>Orford</strong> was slowly<br />
silting up <strong>and</strong> trade declined. The castle<br />
changed h<strong>and</strong>s many time <strong>and</strong> gradually<br />
decayed due to disuse.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
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ACTIVITIES<br />
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ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suffolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 4|10<br />
FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE<br />
It was Thomas who built the red brick<br />
additions to the castle including the<br />
chimneys. The castle is again lost to the<br />
crown after Thomas’ son (also Thomas)<br />
loses favour <strong>and</strong> is imprisoned in the<br />
Tower of London.<br />
In 1553 <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle was given<br />
to Mary Tudor by her brother Edward<br />
VI. She waited here with her<br />
supporters camped outside, waiting to<br />
hear if she would succeed to the<br />
throne. On her accession Mary<br />
pardoned Thomas who died shortly<br />
afterwards leaving <strong>Framlingham</strong> castle<br />
to his son, also called Thomas. Thomas<br />
Howard lost the castle again after<br />
pledging his support to Mary Queen of<br />
Scots. By 1598 the castle was a ruin.<br />
Stuarts<br />
The Howards eventually sold the castle<br />
in 1635 at a huge sum of £14,000 to Sir<br />
Robert Hitcham, Senior Serjeant at law<br />
to James I. Sir Robert died later that<br />
same year <strong>and</strong> stipulated that the stone<br />
be used to build a house for the poor.<br />
The castle is left to Hitcham’s old<br />
college, Pembroke College, Cambridge.<br />
Georgian<br />
After years of legal wrangling the first<br />
poorhouse was built within the castle in<br />
1729. It continued in use until 1839.<br />
ORFORD CASTLE<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
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Whilst still useful as a coastal signalling<br />
station the castle was uninhabited <strong>and</strong><br />
was finally bought by Michael Stanhope,<br />
groom of the Chamber to Elizabeth 1st<br />
<strong>and</strong> later James 1st, in the 1590s. He<br />
commissioned a major survey of his<br />
new manor from John Norden.<br />
Stuarts<br />
Stanhope used stone from the castle<br />
walls to make foundations for his new<br />
home, Sudbourne Hall. By the mid<br />
1600s <strong>Orford</strong> Castle was in a state of<br />
real neglect with roofs <strong>and</strong> floors<br />
collapsing.<br />
Georgian<br />
In 1753 Stanhopes’ descendents sold<br />
Sudbourne <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> to the Earl of<br />
Hertford. In 1805 Frances Marquis of<br />
Hertford wanted to demolish the keep<br />
but wasn’t allowed to as it was an<br />
important navigation mark for ships<br />
passing the s<strong>and</strong>banks.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
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ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 5|10<br />
FRAMLIN GHAM C AST LE<br />
Later History<br />
In the 18thC the castle was used as an<br />
ammunition store during the<br />
Napoleonic wars. In 1839 the<br />
poorhouse was converted into a parish<br />
hall, it later serves as a drill hall <strong>and</strong> a<br />
courtroom.<br />
During WWII <strong>Framlingham</strong> was an<br />
important part of the country’s<br />
defences <strong>and</strong> Nissen huts <strong>and</strong> a lorry<br />
park were set up in the inner bailey.<br />
The castle was given to the Ministry of<br />
Works in 1913 <strong>and</strong> passed into the care<br />
of English Heritage in 1984 .<br />
O RFO RD C AST LE<br />
BO O K IN G AN D SIT E IN FO RMAT IO N<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@ english-heritage.org.uk<br />
W www.english-heritage.org.uk/onlinebooking<br />
Later History<br />
In the nineteenth century the castle<br />
became a ‘summer-house’ for the<br />
owners of the Sudbourne estate. The<br />
Marquises of Hertford (owners from<br />
1754-1870) <strong>and</strong> Sir Richard Wallace<br />
(1871-1884) furnished the Upper Hall.<br />
In 1928 the castle was purchased by<br />
Lord Woodbridge who gave it to the<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Town Trust.<br />
During WWII the castle was<br />
requisitioned <strong>and</strong> a radar post<br />
positioned on the top of the south<br />
turret. The keep was slightly damaged.<br />
In 1962 the castle was transferred to<br />
the Ministry of Works <strong>and</strong><br />
subsequently came into the care of<br />
English Heritage in 1984<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suffolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 6|10<br />
FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE<br />
SITE TOUR<br />
Exterior<br />
The path that your group will take to<br />
enter the castle, follows the original<br />
approach set out in Medieval times.<br />
The bailey would have been found in<br />
the meadow to the right <strong>and</strong> the trees<br />
beyond it mark the line of the outer<br />
ditch.<br />
The inner ditch that you will cross was<br />
dry, <strong>and</strong> looking to the left you can<br />
make out the remains of the large<br />
defensive tower <strong>and</strong> earthworks.<br />
The curtain wall was built around 1190<br />
<strong>and</strong> reaches 10.5 metres high, <strong>and</strong> is<br />
2.3m thick. Dotted with arrow loops,<br />
the crenellated battlements <strong>and</strong> huge<br />
towers make for an imposing first<br />
impression.<br />
The exterior may have been used as<br />
inspiration for the building work at<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle, whose curtain wall is<br />
now lost.<br />
Gatehouse<br />
The original Norman gatehouse was<br />
remodeled during Tudor times.<br />
Originally it was protected by a<br />
drawbridge <strong>and</strong> portcullis, you can see<br />
the remains of the Norman stone piers<br />
underneath the arches in the ditch<br />
below.<br />
Above the wooden doors are the arms<br />
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of the Dukes of Norfolk, alongside the<br />
heraldry of their ancestors.<br />
Well<br />
The castle well, just inside of the<br />
gatehouse, is 30 metres deep.<br />
The great hall <strong>and</strong> poorhouse<br />
The only building to survive within the<br />
interior of the castle is the poorhouse.<br />
This was built around the shell of the<br />
Medieval great hall <strong>and</strong> traces of the<br />
original building can be seen within.<br />
Inside the hall would have stood a large<br />
central open hearth with private<br />
chambers to the north. Here the earls<br />
<strong>and</strong> dukes of Norfolk would have<br />
entertained their guests <strong>and</strong> dined.<br />
Hung with tapestries the lavishly<br />
decorated room would have been<br />
designed to impress visitors to the<br />
castle.<br />
The poorhouse housed three floors,<br />
the first was a work room, the second<br />
held a committee room <strong>and</strong> the third<br />
floor was used as accommodation. The<br />
hole in the ceiling was the coffin chute,<br />
as coffins couldn’t be carried down the<br />
narrow winding stairs.<br />
Wall walk<br />
This was the quickest way to move<br />
around the castle defences. Sentries<br />
stood guard in the towers <strong>and</strong> archers<br />
could shoot from it in times of attack.<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> is unusual, in that unlike<br />
castles such as <strong>Orford</strong>, it does not<br />
seem to have had a central keep,<br />
meaning that the curtain wall was its<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 7|10<br />
nal defence. The wall was divided up<br />
into 13 towers connected by timber<br />
platforms that the soldiers could burn<br />
to protect the towers <strong>and</strong> people<br />
within them.<br />
The most vulnerable areas of the castle<br />
were the south <strong>and</strong> east, where the<br />
l<strong>and</strong> around it was high. It is here that<br />
you can see a concentration of arrow<br />
loops <strong>and</strong> holes for the vertical ipping<br />
wooden shutters which once protected<br />
the archers. Here you can also see<br />
evidence of latrines <strong>and</strong> their disposal<br />
chute.<br />
W estern tower<br />
Built around 1190, this tower was used<br />
to protect the castle from a western<br />
attack. Also known as the prison<br />
tower, the deep pit to the front may<br />
have been a dungeon. By the 16th<br />
century the tower had been converted<br />
into a garden viewing gallery .<br />
C himneys<br />
The two cylindrical stone chimneys<br />
date from 1150 <strong>and</strong> are the earliest<br />
examples in Engl<strong>and</strong>. These served the<br />
chamber block below <strong>and</strong> were<br />
extended using red bricks during the<br />
Tudor period. The majority of the<br />
chimneys in the castle are purely<br />
decorative <strong>and</strong> followed the fashions of<br />
royal palaces such as Hampton Court.<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> great park<br />
To the north <strong>and</strong> west of the castle was<br />
the great park, which the earls, dukes<br />
<strong>and</strong> visiting royalty used for hunting.<br />
BO O K IN G AN D SIT E IN FO RMAT IO N<br />
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Lower court<br />
This area originally housed buildings<br />
such as granaries, stables <strong>and</strong> barns. By<br />
the 16th century it was most likely<br />
converted into a garden.<br />
C hamber block<br />
Situated within the inner court, traces<br />
of this, the oldest building within the<br />
castle, are left on display. This block<br />
provided accommodation for the<br />
dukes’ <strong>and</strong> earls’ families .<br />
C hapel<br />
The roof line running along the eastern<br />
tower wall marks the site of the chapel<br />
built in 1150. In 1524 the chapel was<br />
richly decorated with velvet altar cloths<br />
<strong>and</strong> a tapestry of Christ’s Passion.<br />
T he Lanman Museum<br />
The Lanman Museum is located within<br />
the castle <strong>and</strong> tells the story of<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> from the late 19th century<br />
to the late 20th century. The museum<br />
collection highlights the nature of life in<br />
the town after the castle ceased to<br />
dominate its existence.<br />
There are displays illustrating farming,<br />
life before mechanisation, <strong>and</strong> light<br />
industrial activity. Domestic life from<br />
this period is presented through a<br />
kitchen range <strong>and</strong> utensils of the time.<br />
The museum has originals of every<br />
copy of the <strong>Framlingham</strong> Weekly News<br />
which is displayed on a weekly rotation.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
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INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suffolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 8|10<br />
Schools are most welcome to visit the<br />
museum or undertake a collection<br />
based study. For further information,<br />
including tours, please contact<br />
gilderfram@aol.com.<br />
ORFORD CASTLE<br />
SITE TOUR<br />
The approach<br />
The keep was built between 1165-73<br />
<strong>and</strong> features an unusual cylindrical<br />
interior <strong>and</strong> polygonal exterior. Most<br />
keeps at this time were rectangular,<br />
much like the castle at Dover, which<br />
was also built by Henry II. This new<br />
design was forward thinking <strong>and</strong> an<br />
experiment in new defence techniques.<br />
Three types of stone were used to<br />
build the keep:<br />
S<strong>and</strong>y oolitic limestone from<br />
Northamptonshire<br />
Caen stone from Norm<strong>and</strong>y<br />
Clayed septaria limestone from<br />
the local area.<br />
Inside the keep there are two circular<br />
floors, each with suites which are built<br />
within the turrets.<br />
Entrance<br />
The path you will take to enter the<br />
keep cuts across the original<br />
earthworks. The stairs leading into the<br />
keep are from the 19th century, but<br />
follow the line of the original steps.<br />
The entrance lobby is where visitors<br />
would have been received. The<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
W www.english-heritage.org.uk/onlinebooking<br />
archway between the lobby <strong>and</strong> the<br />
lower hall has a fine example of a triple<br />
arch with ornamental carvings.<br />
In this area, students should be able to<br />
identify some key defensive features<br />
including the grooves for the portcullis<br />
<strong>and</strong> slots in the doorways for heavy<br />
bolts to bar the doors.<br />
Lower hall<br />
Though the keep was never used as a<br />
primary residence, it was often<br />
garrisoned <strong>and</strong> was the setting for<br />
courts <strong>and</strong> dispensing of justice. The<br />
lower hall would have provided the<br />
location for such gatherings <strong>and</strong><br />
evidence of this is visible in the stone<br />
benches which line the walls.<br />
In the castle hey-day the walls would<br />
have been plastered <strong>and</strong> painted <strong>and</strong><br />
brightly coloured furniture would have<br />
been found here. The window alcoves<br />
lit the room during the day <strong>and</strong> were<br />
shuttered at night. Many of these<br />
alcoves lead to further rooms.<br />
Kitchen<br />
The kitchen within the keep is rather<br />
small, though the heavy wear on the<br />
steps show that it was well used. A<br />
larger kitchen was located in the bailey.<br />
Just past the kitchen is a garderobe<br />
with two seats, which it can be<br />
assumed were partitioned off from each<br />
other. The room was well ventilated<br />
<strong>and</strong> shows that particular attention was<br />
paid to sanitation.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 9|10<br />
C onstable’s chamber<br />
This room was no doubt allocated to<br />
an important ocial due to it’s<br />
proximity to the large warming re <strong>and</strong><br />
distance from the lower hall. A urinal<br />
is also located in the outer wall of the<br />
passage, saving a long walk to the<br />
garderobe. The north chamber,<br />
located near to here was also warmed<br />
by the re <strong>and</strong> was probably allocated<br />
to middle-ranking visitors.<br />
The main stairway can be accessed<br />
from this point, students should note<br />
that it has been designed to give<br />
right-h<strong>and</strong>ed defenders space to use<br />
their sword, <strong>and</strong> hinders attackers<br />
approaching from below.<br />
Basement<br />
This space was used to house food <strong>and</strong><br />
water, <strong>and</strong> was particularly useful<br />
during sieges. The well is nearly 14<br />
metres deep. Due to the close<br />
proximity to the sea, the water from<br />
here was often salty. Therefore water<br />
was collected from the roof though<br />
cisterns <strong>and</strong> dispersed through pipes<br />
that can be seen dotted around the<br />
keep.<br />
C hapel <strong>and</strong> chaplain’s chamber<br />
The chapel was the most highly<br />
decorated space within the keep, <strong>and</strong><br />
many of the decorative arches still<br />
survive. Students should be able to<br />
locate the piscine for washing sacred<br />
vessels, two cupboards <strong>and</strong> a squint to<br />
allow people in the outer passageway<br />
BO O K IN G AN D SIT E IN FO RMAT IO N<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@ english-heritage.org.uk<br />
W www.english-heritage.org.uk/onlinebooking<br />
to hear the service. A key defence<br />
mechanism, the portcullis slot, is<br />
concealed beneath the raised wooden<br />
board.<br />
The chamber held a private latrine <strong>and</strong><br />
store cupboard for the chaplain’s<br />
private use.<br />
Upper hall<br />
This hall was more highly decorated<br />
than the one below <strong>and</strong> was used to<br />
entertain important visitors. The room<br />
was topped o by an imposing conical<br />
roof, similar to those seen in Byzantium<br />
(Istanbul), aligning the king with the<br />
great rulers of the past.<br />
Rooms leading o from the hall include<br />
the upper kitchen where meals were<br />
heated <strong>and</strong> features a single roundarched<br />
replace <strong>and</strong> herringbone roof<br />
tiles.<br />
T he king’s chamber<br />
This room, complete with a private<br />
latrine, was easily reached from the<br />
upper hall. This was the most<br />
luxurious room in the keep <strong>and</strong> was<br />
reserved for the king’s use.<br />
Walking up the main staircase from this<br />
space you will come to a short passage<br />
way which has a cistern. This is one of<br />
the cisterns that collected rainwater for<br />
use within the castle. This method of<br />
water collection is similar to that at<br />
Dover Castle.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suffolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
PAGE 10|10<br />
The roof<br />
Upon reaching the open roof space,<br />
your students will be able to admire the<br />
views out across <strong>Orford</strong> Ness, inl<strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>and</strong> the sea. This gives a good<br />
indication as to why this location was<br />
chosen as the vantage point is so vast.<br />
Also visible here is the Second World<br />
War radar observation post, showing<br />
the changing use of the castle over the<br />
centuries.<br />
The turrets once held shutters which<br />
were pivoted to allow arches to shoot<br />
outwards, then dropped back into place<br />
to protect them.<br />
Within the north turret is a large<br />
baking oven complete with decorative<br />
tiles. Be aware, that due to the size of<br />
the oven, students are prone to climb<br />
inside it.<br />
Earthworks<br />
Whilst there is a lot of activity in the<br />
area outside of the keep, little of the<br />
earthworks survive to reveal what the<br />
original curtain wall <strong>and</strong> outbuildings<br />
looked like. Reconstructions (provided<br />
in the Images section of this pack) give<br />
an indication of this, but a fine example<br />
of how they once looked is<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle. Henry <strong>and</strong> his<br />
architect no doubt took inspiration<br />
from the impenetrable walls of his<br />
enemy <strong>and</strong> rival.<br />
From the outside, it is easier to gain a<br />
sense of the scale of the keep <strong>and</strong> to<br />
locate evidence such as the latrine<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
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W www.english-heritage.org.uk/onlinebooking<br />
chutes. Walking further a field you will<br />
come across an old quarry area <strong>and</strong><br />
views of <strong>Orford</strong> Ness.<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
TIMELINE<br />
PRE<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
(to A D42)<br />
ROMANS<br />
(43 - 409)<br />
BO O K IN G AN D SIT E IN FO RMAT IO N<br />
BRITONS,<br />
ENGLISH, VIKINGS<br />
(410 - 1065)<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@ english-heritage.org.uk<br />
MIDDLE AGES<br />
(1066 - 1484)<br />
1086<br />
The Domesday Book<br />
notes <strong>Framlingham</strong> is<br />
under Norman control<br />
1101<br />
Henry I gives<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> to Roger<br />
Bigod 1<br />
1154<br />
Hugh Bigod builds the<br />
1st stone builings at<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle<br />
1157<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle is<br />
conscated by the<br />
1165<br />
Work on O rford Castle<br />
begins <strong>and</strong> the Bigod<br />
l<strong>and</strong>s are returned<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
MIDDLE AGE S<br />
continued<br />
INFO<br />
1166<br />
The keep at <strong>Orford</strong> is<br />
completed<br />
1168<br />
The walls <strong>and</strong> towers at<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle are built<br />
1173<br />
Hugh Bigod loses<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> follwing his<br />
rebellion against the king<br />
1135<br />
1189<br />
The Anarchy begins, Roger Bigod II reclaims<br />
Stephen <strong>and</strong> Matilda ght<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
for the crown<br />
rebuilds the castle<br />
Henry II takes the<br />
throne, ending the<br />
Anarchy<br />
1216<br />
King John besieges<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle<br />
1217<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle is briey<br />
lost to the French<br />
1260s<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle changes<br />
h<strong>and</strong>s several times<br />
during the Baron’s War<br />
1270<br />
Roger Bigod IV inherits<br />
Framlingha, later he<br />
leaves the castle to<br />
Edward I in his will to<br />
pay o his debts<br />
1336<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle is sold, it<br />
is no longer a royal<br />
castle
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
The history of these two castles has been inextricably linked for the past 1000<br />
years. Providing state of the art defences for Henry II <strong>and</strong> the rival Bigod family,<br />
the castles dominated the Suffolk l<strong>and</strong>scape. It is recommended that you visit both<br />
castles to gain a greater underst<strong>and</strong>ing of their history. This resource will help you<br />
to interpret the properties <strong>and</strong> provide you with engaging activity ideas to<br />
undertake with your students.<br />
TIMELINE<br />
TUDOR<br />
(1485 - 1602)<br />
1483<br />
John Howard, of<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> castle, is<br />
created Duke of Norfolk<br />
1553<br />
Mary I finds support <strong>and</strong><br />
shelter at <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
Castle<br />
STUART<br />
(1603 - 1713)<br />
1600s<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle is<br />
reported to be a ruin<br />
1654<br />
The <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
almshouses are built<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
GEORGIANS<br />
(1714 - 1836)<br />
1729<br />
The <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
poorhouse is built<br />
1831<br />
Restoration work begins<br />
on <strong>Orford</strong> Castle<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
VICTORIANS<br />
(1837 - 1901)<br />
1839<br />
The poorhouse at<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> is turned<br />
into a parish hall<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
MODERN TIMES<br />
(1902 - TODAY)<br />
INFO<br />
1913<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle<br />
given to the Ministry of<br />
Works<br />
1939-45<br />
Both castles are used by<br />
the military during<br />
World War II<br />
1950s<br />
Saxon graves are<br />
discovered at <strong>Orford</strong><br />
Castle<br />
1962<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle is given to<br />
the Ministry of Works<br />
1984<br />
English Heritage takes<br />
over from the Ministry<br />
of Works
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT INFO<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle<br />
LOCATION<br />
Church Street, <strong>Framlingham</strong>, Suffolk<br />
IP13 9BP<br />
OS Grid Reference TM 28655 63553<br />
PAGE 1|2<br />
HOW TO GET THERE<br />
Bus First 63, from Ipswich railway station<br />
(passes Woodbridge station), Beeston<br />
118/9 from Ipswich<br />
Rail Wickham Market 61⁄2 miles,<br />
Saxmundham 7 miles<br />
FACILITIES<br />
Parking is available on site. Coach<br />
drivers should collect a free parking<br />
permit from the ticket office.<br />
Disabled access all ground floor areas<br />
within the castle walls are level surfaces.<br />
Steep spiral stairs are used to access the<br />
wall walk. An interactive tour of the<br />
walls is available within the wheelchair<br />
accessible exhibition space.<br />
Shop a gift shop is located on site.<br />
Toilets are available within the castle, a<br />
disabled access toilet is located at the<br />
ticket office.<br />
Picnics may be eaten inside the<br />
poorhouse <strong>and</strong> are welcome in the<br />
grounds.<br />
LEARNERS GO FREE<br />
Educational visits are free to English<br />
Heritage properties <strong>and</strong> should be<br />
booked at least 7 days in advance via the:<br />
Education Booking Team<br />
English Heritage,<br />
The Engine House,<br />
Fire Fly Avenue,<br />
Swindon,<br />
SN2 2EH<br />
T: 0870 333 0606<br />
E: bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
W: www.english-heritage.org.uk/education<br />
Please remember that you are<br />
responsible for completing your own risk<br />
assessment. Hazard information<br />
available when booking.<br />
Limit on party number groups are<br />
limited to 100 on site (children plus<br />
teachers <strong>and</strong> adult helpers).<br />
Required teacher/adult helper to pupil<br />
ratio 1:6 for school years 1-3 <strong>and</strong> 1:15<br />
for all other groups aged under 18.<br />
Pupils must be supervised at all times.<br />
A GUIDE TO RESOURCES:<br />
The Big Book of <strong>Castles</strong> is available<br />
to borrow. It is a non-fiction book<br />
to help young children underst<strong>and</strong><br />
what life was like inside a castle.<br />
An information booklet is available<br />
- please contact us if you would<br />
like a copy.<br />
A discovery bag is available onsite<br />
to aid groups exploring the<br />
grounds outside of the castle.<br />
A <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle guidebook is<br />
available <strong>and</strong> can be purchased<br />
through the English Heritage<br />
website. Teachers with a valid<br />
booking permit will receive a 20%<br />
discount when purchasing<br />
guidebooks.<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle, 2009<br />
English Heritage<br />
ISBN 979781848 020214<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle<br />
LOCATION<br />
<strong>Orford</strong>, Woodbridge, Suffolk<br />
IP12 2ND<br />
OS Grid Reference TM 42039 49842<br />
PAGE 2|2<br />
HOW TO GET THERE<br />
Bus Country Travel 160 Woodbridge -<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> (passes Melton railway station)<br />
Rail Wickham Market 8 miles.<br />
FACILITIES<br />
Parking is not available onsite, coaches<br />
should park at the quay 1/3 mile away.<br />
Disabled access at the site is limited.<br />
Steps are used to access the keep <strong>and</strong> no<br />
lift is available. The grassed areas<br />
surrounding the castle are uneven <strong>and</strong><br />
sloped.<br />
Shop is very small. If you would rather<br />
pre-order goody bags please speak to<br />
the site staff on your planning visit.<br />
Toilets public toilets are located in the<br />
village on Market Hill <strong>and</strong> at the quay car<br />
park. There are none at the site.<br />
Picnics are welcome in the grounds.<br />
LEARNERS GO FREE<br />
Educational visits are free to English<br />
Heritage properties <strong>and</strong> should be<br />
booked at least 7 days in advance via the:<br />
Education Booking Team<br />
English Heritage,<br />
The Engine House,<br />
Fire Fly Avenue,<br />
Swindon,<br />
SN2 2EH<br />
T: 0870 333 0606<br />
E: bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
W:www.english-heritage.org.uk/education<br />
Please remember that you are<br />
responsible for completing your own risk<br />
assessment. Hazard information<br />
available when booking.<br />
Limit on party number groups are<br />
limited to 100 on site, however only 36<br />
are allowed in the keep at one time<br />
(children plus teachers <strong>and</strong> adult<br />
helpers).<br />
Required teacher/adult helper to pupil<br />
ratio 1:6 for school years 1-3 <strong>and</strong> 1:15<br />
for all other groups aged under 18.<br />
Pupils must be supervised at all times.<br />
A GUIDE TO RESOURCES:<br />
The Big Book of <strong>Castles</strong> is available<br />
to borrow. It is a non-fiction book<br />
to help young children underst<strong>and</strong><br />
what life was like inside a castle.<br />
An information booklet is available<br />
- please contact us if you would<br />
like a copy.<br />
Two story bags are available on<br />
site, complete with h<strong>and</strong>ling<br />
collections.<br />
An <strong>Orford</strong> Castle guidebook is<br />
available <strong>and</strong> can be purchased<br />
through the English Heritage<br />
website. Teachers with a valid<br />
booking permit will receive a 20%<br />
discount when purchasing<br />
guidebooks.<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle, 2011<br />
English Heritage<br />
ISBN 9781850748540<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
INFO<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
For more ready to use castle activities try our other free downloadable resources:<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Attack & Defence: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-attack-<strong>and</strong>-defence/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Show Down or Show Off?: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-show-down-show-off/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Rough Room Guide: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-rough-room-guide/<br />
PAGE 1|4<br />
PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT<br />
We recommend that you take<br />
advantage of our free planning visit<br />
scheme to familiarise yourself with the<br />
site, <strong>and</strong> to prepare any activities that<br />
your group may undertake.<br />
ACTIVITY IDEAS<br />
These short, informal activities work as<br />
icebreakers for Key Stage one to three<br />
visitors to <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Orford</strong> Castle. Here you will find<br />
activity ideas for joint visits to both<br />
sites, <strong>and</strong> site specific resources for<br />
independent visits.<br />
Visiting sites such as these can be<br />
daunting, so it may be best to offer the<br />
students a theme to explore during<br />
their visit. By taking a thematic<br />
approach, your students will be able to<br />
lead independent enquires, self-manage<br />
their time, develop their team working<br />
skills <strong>and</strong> become reflective learners.<br />
Upon arrival agree a theme or themes<br />
for your students to explore the castle<br />
with. For example:<br />
Life in the castle<br />
Building methods<br />
Changing l<strong>and</strong>scapes.<br />
Your students can then explore the<br />
sites using recording devices such as<br />
digital cameras to track their research<br />
for later use. You might also want to<br />
encourage your group to set<br />
themselves goals as part of their theme.<br />
For example under life in the castle,<br />
they may want to find out more about<br />
the servants living on site <strong>and</strong> the jobs<br />
that they undertook.<br />
As part of their investigations students<br />
should be encouraged to manage their<br />
own time within a set parameter <strong>and</strong> to<br />
work together as a team.<br />
The following activities build upon each<br />
of these themes <strong>and</strong> can be used to<br />
extend your exploration of both sites.<br />
JOINT VISIT ACTIVITIES<br />
Buildings of the past<br />
Interpreting the curtain walls at <strong>Orford</strong><br />
Castle <strong>and</strong> the interior buildings at<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle can be difficult.<br />
With this in mind, ask your students to<br />
explore the site using the<br />
reconstructions in this pack <strong>and</strong><br />
interpretation boards to build up a<br />
picture of how each castle once looked.<br />
Set the class some discussion points<br />
such as:<br />
What similarities <strong>and</strong> differences<br />
can you see between the castles<br />
now <strong>and</strong> in Medieval times?<br />
Did the castles share many similar<br />
buildings e.g. kitchens?<br />
Were similar building methods<br />
used at each castle?<br />
To extend this activity ask your<br />
students to make a display of the<br />
similarities <strong>and</strong> differences using copies<br />
of the reconstructions in the this pack<br />
<strong>and</strong> photographs they have taken.<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
For more ready to use castle activities try our other free downloadable resources:<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Attack & Defence: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-attack-<strong>and</strong>-defence/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Show Down or Show Off?: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-show-down-show-off/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Rough Room Guide: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-rough-room-guide/<br />
PAGE 2|4<br />
Roger Bigod <strong>and</strong> King Henry<br />
In order to build up a picture of why<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> was built, <strong>and</strong> why <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
was such a threat, students should find<br />
out more about the key characters<br />
involved.<br />
Using the interpretation at the two<br />
sites <strong>and</strong> the information in this pack,<br />
students should build up a profile of<br />
Roger Bigod <strong>and</strong> Henry II. Using this<br />
information they should hold either an<br />
online dialogue using a platform such as<br />
Twitter, or a classroom debate to<br />
enhance speaking <strong>and</strong> listening skills.<br />
Similarities <strong>and</strong> differences<br />
In this activity your groups will need to<br />
find as many similarities <strong>and</strong> differences<br />
between the two castles as possible.<br />
As part of this they will need to<br />
consider the reconstructions available<br />
in this pack. You may want to theme<br />
their investigations under:<br />
buildings<br />
resources<br />
decorations<br />
uses.<br />
Can they think why the two castles<br />
were similar/different?<br />
FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
Exploring the exterior<br />
There is a lot to see at <strong>Framlingham</strong><br />
Castle <strong>and</strong> a short walk around the<br />
outside of the walls can improve your<br />
group’s underst<strong>and</strong>ing of the building.<br />
Ask your students to look out for:<br />
signs of defence e.g. arrow loops<br />
signs of prestige e.g. the mere<br />
signs of life in the castle e.g.<br />
garderobe chutes.<br />
As part of this you might also ask them<br />
to find <strong>and</strong> photograph alterations that<br />
have happened at the castle. E.g under<br />
the current bridge you can see the<br />
Norman piers that once held the<br />
drawbridge in place.<br />
Siege<br />
In 1216 King John besieged the castle.<br />
Divide your students in half, with one<br />
being strategists for King John, <strong>and</strong> the<br />
other for Roger Bigod.<br />
The groups will need to explore the<br />
interior <strong>and</strong> exterior of the castle to<br />
plan their attack/defence. They should<br />
note down:<br />
key locations for attack/defence<br />
the weaponry that they will use<br />
advantages that their group has<br />
areas of concern/weakness.<br />
They may wish to mark these on a copy<br />
of the site plan (provided in the Images<br />
section of this pack).<br />
Back in the classroom, ask your groups<br />
to present their plans of attack/defence<br />
on the interactive whiteboard. Finally<br />
they should discuss:<br />
Has either group missed an<br />
opportunity or not considered a<br />
particular threat/weakness?<br />
In terms of resources/strength<br />
who had the advantage?<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
For more ready to use castle activities try our other free downloadable resources:<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Attack & Defence: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-attack-<strong>and</strong>-defence/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Show Down or Show Off?: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-show-down-show-off/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Rough Room Guide: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-rough-room-guide/<br />
PAGE 3|4<br />
Life on the wall<br />
Exploring the wall can be difficult in<br />
large groups as there are few places to<br />
stop. Instead, investigate the wall in<br />
small groups. Provide each group with<br />
a theme to investigate or a question to<br />
answer. E.g.<br />
How far can you see from the top<br />
of the wall <strong>and</strong> what can you<br />
spot?<br />
What signs of defence can they<br />
see on the wall? E.g. holes for<br />
archers’ shutters.<br />
What signs of prestige can they<br />
see from here? E.g. the deer<br />
park.<br />
What would it have been like to<br />
serve up here, are there toilets/<br />
accommodation?<br />
The poorhouse<br />
Ask your group to explore the<br />
poorhouse <strong>and</strong> the supporting<br />
exhibitions.<br />
Inside the poorhouse ask your group to<br />
find out:<br />
what the living conditions would<br />
have been like<br />
what food the inmates would<br />
have received<br />
how the design of the building<br />
reflects the use of it e.g. the coffin<br />
chute.<br />
To extend this activity, ask your group<br />
to imagine what life in the poorhouse<br />
would have been like, how might the<br />
surroundings have affected the inmates?<br />
This could lead on to creative writing.<br />
ORFORD CASTLE ACTIVITIES<br />
Getting to know the site<br />
When you first enter the castle, your<br />
students will no doubt be keen to<br />
explore all of the keep straight away.<br />
Set your students a thematic<br />
exploration task which allows them to<br />
discover the history <strong>and</strong> scale of the<br />
keep. For example:<br />
defence - can they locate three<br />
key defence mechanisms within<br />
the castle?<br />
sanitation - what evidence of<br />
cleanliness can they find?<br />
decoration - what type of<br />
artwork <strong>and</strong> design can they find<br />
within the keep?<br />
Alternatively, set quests, such as ‘find<br />
the imprisoned knight mannequin’.<br />
Comfort within the castle<br />
As a royal castle, the accommodation at<br />
<strong>Orford</strong> needed to be fit for a king. Ask<br />
your group to explore the site, seeking<br />
out the various bed chambers. You<br />
may wish to provide them with the site<br />
plan in the Images section of this pack<br />
as an aid.<br />
In each chamber they should look for<br />
signs of comfort <strong>and</strong> consider who they<br />
think might have stayed in each room.<br />
Clues should include:<br />
the proximity to a fire for<br />
warmth<br />
the location in relation to the<br />
upper hall<br />
access to a garderobe.<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
For more ready to use castle activities try our other free downloadable resources:<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Attack & Defence: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-attack-<strong>and</strong>-defence/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Show Down or Show Off?: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-show-down-show-off/<br />
<strong>Castles</strong> - Rough Room Guide: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/castles-rough-room-guide/<br />
PAGE 4|4<br />
Creative writing<br />
Introduce your students to the story of<br />
the merman, as outlined in the<br />
exhibition in the upper hall. Can they<br />
think of a scientific explanation as to<br />
who/what the merman was?<br />
Your group will then need to explore<br />
the keep, searching out where the<br />
merman would have been imprisoned.<br />
They should consider:<br />
how he would have felt<br />
how the guards would have felt<br />
what it would have been like to<br />
be imprisoned here.<br />
Finally, ask the students to write a<br />
short story or a poem based on the<br />
merman’s experience, drawing<br />
particular attention to the keep <strong>and</strong> the<br />
conditions of he was kept in.<br />
Medieval engineers<br />
In this activity your students will<br />
consider the engineering techniques<br />
used by the architect <strong>and</strong> builders who<br />
created the castle.<br />
Explain to your group that they have<br />
been sent by the king who wants to<br />
underst<strong>and</strong> the types of techniques<br />
being used. They will need to create a<br />
document to record their findings,<br />
perhaps a table listing the type of device<br />
<strong>and</strong> the reasoning behind it.<br />
Students should be directed towards<br />
items such as:<br />
The shape of the interior <strong>and</strong><br />
exterior of the castle. Here, they<br />
should consider geometry.<br />
Windows <strong>and</strong> arches - how are<br />
they held in place e.g. keystones?<br />
Devices within the keep such as<br />
the direction of the spiral<br />
staircases.<br />
Scale drawings<br />
Gather the group outside of the keep<br />
<strong>and</strong> divide them into small teams. Each<br />
group should be provided with graph<br />
paper. Explain that they are<br />
going to create a scale drawing of one<br />
side of the keep. Set the scale for your<br />
group, e.g. 1cm = 1 metre.<br />
You should provide each group with<br />
some basic information <strong>and</strong> resources,<br />
such as:<br />
the highest point of the keep is<br />
the turret, at 27.2 metres high.<br />
tape measures<br />
clinometers.<br />
The final drawings can be used back in<br />
the classroom as part of your post-visit<br />
activities.<br />
For further activity ideas for either<br />
castle, visit the Heritage Explorer<br />
website.<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
IMAGES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT IMAGES<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
An aerial view of <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 1|11<br />
© Skyscan Balloon Photography Source: English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
A reconstruction of <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle in the 13th century.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 2|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
A detailed image of the holes which once secured the archers’ protective<br />
shutters at <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 3|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
Examples of the different chimneys visible at <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 4|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
An engraving of <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle by Buck in 1730.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 5|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
A site plan of <strong>Framlingham</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 6|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
An aerial view of <strong>Orford</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 7|11<br />
© Skyscan Balloon Photography Source: English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
A reconstruction of the interior of the keep at <strong>Orford</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 8|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
Evidence of sanitation within <strong>Orford</strong> Castle, including a garderobe, urinal <strong>and</strong><br />
latrine chutes.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 9|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
An engraving of <strong>Orford</strong> Castle by Buck, 1730.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 10|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
TO DOWNLOAD<br />
<strong>HISTORY</strong><br />
INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
ENGLISH HERITAGE TEACHER’S KIT<br />
<strong>Framlingham</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Orford</strong> <strong>Castles</strong><br />
A site plan of <strong>Orford</strong> Castle.<br />
Visit www.heritage-explorer.org.uk for more copyright-cleared images<br />
PAGE 11|11<br />
© English Heritage Photo Library<br />
BOOKING AND SITE INFORMATION<br />
English Heritage, The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EH.<br />
T 0870 333 0606 E bookeducation@english-heritage.org.uk<br />
IMAGES<br />
ALSO AVAILABLE<br />
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INFO<br />
ACTIVITIES
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