Benington Castle facts for kids
Benington Castle is a very old ruined castle in the village of Benington, near Stevenage in Hertfordshire, England. It has been a protected historical site since 1936. This means it's an important piece of history that people want to keep safe.
The first castle here was a type called a motte-and-bailey castle. It was built around the late 1000s or early 1100s by a person named Peter de Valognes. Later, in 1136, Roger de Valognes built a stronger stone castle with a tall tower called a keep.
But castles often played a part in old wars. In 1177, King Henry II ordered that the castle's tower be pulled down. Even so, the castle was used again by 1192. Its final destruction happened in 1212. This was after a man named Robert Fitzwalter rebelled against King John. Today, only the old foundations of the tower and some earth mounds are left from the original castle.
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Benington Lordship and Gardens
The land where the castle once stood now has a beautiful Georgian house called Benington Lordship. This house was built much later. Its gardens were also designed around the old castle site.
In 1832, a man named George Proctor added some interesting features. He built a gatehouse, a summerhouse, and a wall that looked like old Norman buildings. These additions made the property look even more historic.
Exploring the Gardens
The large park and gardens at Benington Lordship are very special. They are listed as Grade II on the Register of Parks and Gardens. This means they are important historical gardens.
The gardens cover about 7 acres, which is a lot of space to explore! They have even been praised by garden experts. There is also a stream that flows through the gardens. This stream was probably part of the castle's defenses a long time ago. Now, it's part of the beautiful garden design.
St Peter's Church
Close to the castle ruins is the medieval church of St Peter. This church is also very old and important. It has its own special heritage listing (Grade I), which is the highest level of protection.
Visiting Benington Castle
Benington Castle is on private land, which means it's part of Benington Lordship. You can visit the castle and gardens, but only at certain times. They sometimes open to the public for special events, like through the National Gardens Scheme. This gives people a chance to see this historic site and its lovely surroundings.
