Glottenham Castle facts for kids

The location of the former Glottenham Castle.

Glottenham Castle was an old castle located in Mountfield, East Sussex, England. It was built a very long time ago, in the 1200s. This castle stood about 5 miles (8 km) north of a famous place called Battle Abbey. Sadly, Glottenham Castle was left empty and unused sometime in the late 1500s or 1600s. Today, you can still visit the area where it once stood.

Discovering Glottenham Castle's Past

Glottenham Castle has a long and interesting history. The land it sits on, known as the manor of Glottenham, had special boundary ditches as far back as the 1000s. These ditches helped mark out the land. Around the year 1200, a moat was likely added. A moat is a deep, wide ditch, often filled with water, that surrounds a castle to protect it.

Building the Castle Walls

The main castle structure was built in the late 1200s. It was made with strong stone walls. The castle also featured two square towers, which were tall structures used for defense and observation. A gatehouse was also part of the design. This was a fortified entrance that controlled who could enter and leave the castle.

Who Owned Glottenham Castle?

For a time, Glottenham Castle was owned by an important family known as the de Etchinghams. They were a powerful family in the area. However, by the late 1500s or early 1600s, the castle was no longer used and became abandoned. Over time, it slowly fell into ruin.

What Happened to the Land?

Even after the castle was abandoned, the land around it remained useful. In the 1800s, the fields near Glottenham Castle were used to grow hops. Hops are plants used to make beer, but they also have other uses. In 1920, the entire castle estate was sold at an auction. It was a very large piece of land, measuring about 595 acres (241 ha).

Glottenham Castle Today

In 1990, the site of Glottenham Castle was officially recognized as an important historical place. It was listed under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. This law helps protect important historical sites in England. Today, the area where Glottenham Castle once stood is a popular spot for outdoor adventures. Many people enjoy camping and glamping there. Glamping is a more luxurious way to camp, often with comfortable tents and beds.