Farleigh Hungerford Castle, Trowbridge (Somerset)

Dating from the 1370s, this fortified mansion includes towers and a chapel with monuments, wall- paintings and coffins.

Summary 14th century buildings Guided tours Gift shop Information provided Learning facilities

Introduction

Farleigh Hungerford was begun in the 1370s by Sir Thomas Hungerford, Speaker of the Commons, and extended in the 15th century by his son Walter, Lord Hungerford, distinguished soldier and statesman. The remains of their fortified mansion include two tall corner towers and a complete castle chapel, crowded with family monuments and bedecked with wall-paintings. In the chapel's crypt the coffins of many Hungerfords are still visible, several with attached 'death masks'.

The colourful Hungerford family included two members executed during the Wars of the Roses and another - who imprisoned his wife here for four years - beheaded by Henry VIII. A Tudor Lady Hungerford burnt her murdered husband's body in the castle's oven.

The story of Farleigh and its owners is told in extensive displays in the Priest's House, and through an audio tour. There is a touch-screen virtual tour for disabled visitors, and family and educational facilities including a 'book box', schools base and historic costumes.

Admission prices:

Adult:£3.60

Children:£1.80

Concession:£3.10

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Farleigh Hungerford Castle, Trowbridge, Somerset, , United Kingdom

Opening Times:

1 Apr-30 Jun: 10am-5pm daily

1 Jul-31 Aug: 10am-6pm daily

1-30 Sep: 10am-5pm daily

1 Oct-1 Nov: 10am-4pm daily

2 Nov-31 Mar: 10am-4pm Sat & Sun

24-26 Dec and 1 Jan: Closed

 

Photographs courtesy of English Heritage Photo Library

More photos of Farleigh Hungerford Castle, Trowbridge

the chapel

tombs

15th century wall painting