Farnham Castle
Farnham Castle was built in 12th Century and has been an important meeting place for the Kings and Queens of England.
- Farnham Castle today
- The ruins of the Castle Keep as it looks today. ©Michele Sheppard A&FCC
The magnificent Castle overlooks the town. In 1138 Henry de Blois started building the Castle. It provided a fortification at the meeting of the highways and also hospitable accommodation for the Bishops of Winchester in frequent journey between his cathedral and the capital.
At the foot of the 12th Century Keep, more spacious and comfortable living quarters were gradually built.
Mary Tudor stayed on her way to her marriage to Philip of Spain at Winchester Cathedral and Elizabeth the First came to the castle several times. Domestic buildings followed in the 13th century and today the castle is still a blend of the fortified and residential.
From the 12th century until the 1920’s it was a residence - a palace – of the Bishops of Winchester. There, through the years, they entertained kings and queens.
The castle saw little conflict but was the seen of fighting during the Civil Wars.
After the Reformation, Bishop Morley restored the residential buildings, retaining the shell of the medieval structure but re-modelling the interior, particularly the Great Hall.
The Diocese of Guildford was created out of the Diocese of Winchester in 1927 and buildings altered to make a residence for the Bishop of Guildford. However, no bishop has lived at the castle since 1955.
Today the residential part is occupied by Farnham Castle of International Briefing and Conference Centre and the Castle Keep is owned by English Heritage. Guided Tours of the Castle Palace take place every Wednesday (except Christmas Day) between 2pm and 4pm. During the months of June, July and August tours also take place on Friday at 2.30pm. The tours are not suitable for disabled people due to stairs.
During July and August, the Castle Keep is open on Fridays, Saturday, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays between 12noon and 5pm. Explore the mighty shell keep with the inclusive tour.
More information on Farnham Castle is available from the Farnham Castle website and the English Heritage website
Address:
Farnham Castle : Castle Hill, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 0AG
Tel: 01252 721194
Farnham Castle Keep Managed by English Heritage
Tel: 0870 333 1181
