Framlingham Castle

Framlingham is a magnificant example of the late 12th century castle. Built by Roger Bigod, Earl of Norfolk, the castle, together with Framlingham Mere, was designed both as a stronghold and as a symbol of power and status--as befitted one of the most influential people at the court of the Plantagenet kings. Artchitectually, the castle is notable for its curtain wall with mural towers, an early example of this design. The castle fulfilled a number of roles. It was at the centre of the sturggle between the Bigod barons and the Crown, and Mary Tudor mustered her supporters here in 1553, before being crowned Queen. At the end of the 16th century it was a prison:later still a poorhouse was built within the walls. That was your short history lesson in regard to Framlingham Castle curtiousy of the English Heritage members guide book. This was another fun castle to explore at your own pace. It was fun to see the walls that still stand strong and imagine what it would have looked like hundreds of years ago. The kids always have fun when we go on these adventures. They have been dying to go to a castle as we haven't been for a long while. It was a bit rainy, but overall it was fabulous. We were some of the only people there, and we always enjoy the freedom that allows you to explore.
Exploring the castle grounds. You can see that Brennan was especially interested in this castle.

The kids on the tower walls. They had made a catwalk that you could go on the upper level and walk around the castle walls. It was a gorgeous view from up there, you could see for quite a ways.


Going up the spiral staircase. That was an original stair case. They were so small and you had to pay attention or you would have gone down quick! Carter decided he didn't need a coat with us today. He said he would not get cold. We did point his coat out to him at the front door and said take it with us please. We got there and realized that he hadn't grabbed it. Good thing his 'Uncle' Damian is such a nice guy and donated his. I would have let him go until he was whining about the cold so he might remember next time to bring a coat!! Cheeky guy!

Like father like daughter...goodness!! At least she didn't go as far up as Mike did.

Enjoying life in the carrier. He just started sucking his lip recently. He is such a good boy about being carried around all day.


This is a picture of the inside grounds. The fencing and bridges you see in the picture are the upper level.

How cool is this giant chess set? The kids were having a fabulous time playing with this even though they didn't have a clue as to what they were doing.

Carter got a bit nervous after climbing up the side of the hill and wasn't sure how to get down. Then Dad showed him how to get down using the berlap going down the hill. We decided if it snowed this year we would need to come here and go sledding.