Bodiam Castle is a picturesque medieval castle located in East Sussex, England. It was built in the 14th century by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of Edward III, as a defensive stronghold during the Hundred Years' War with France. The castle is renowned for its symmetrical design and its moat, which surrounds the structure, giving it a fairy-tale appearance.
Key features of Bodiam Castle include its quadrangular layout with round towers at each corner, connected by curtain walls. The castle was strategically positioned along the River Rother, which provided both defensive advantages and access to transportation routes.
Despite its formidable appearance, Bodiam Castle was primarily built for residential purposes rather than pure military defense. It featured comfortable living quarters, a great hall, a chapel, and other domestic facilities typical of a medieval noble residence.
Throughout its history, Bodiam Castle changed hands multiple times and underwent various modifications and renovations. It fell into disrepair during the English Civil War in the 17th century but was later partially restored in the 19th century by the famous architect Anthony Salvin.