Castles and Forts in Essex

There are many wonderful Essex landmarks that represent the rich history and heritage of our county, including magnificent castles and forts. Visiting one of these attractions will transport you back in time to Tudor Essex, or our interesting Roman roots. Many of our forts and castles were utilised for defence in historic battles and wars.

Essex Castles

Looking for a historical day out in Essex? Visit one of our castles! Visit the Colchester District for the breathtaking Hedingham Castle in Halstead – the best-preserved Norman keep in England, now a popular venue for weddings and events. If you’re intrigued by Roman history, then you can’t miss out on Colchester Castle, built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Other castles in Essex include Hadleigh Castle, Benfleet, which played a key role in defending the Thames Estuary against the French raids during the Hundred Years War. For a great day out with the family, Mountfitchet Castle in the Uttlesford District is the place to go!

Essex Forts

Fortifications in Essex have played a huge role in our history, built during periods of conflict to provide defences, or protect strategic locations. Harwich Redoubt Fort is a circular fort built in 1808 with ten guns from Napoleonic invasion. Today, it is open as a military museum with outstanding battle re-enactments and events taking place throughout the summer. Tilbury Fort located on the Thames Estuary is a wonderful example of its type in England, and is a fantastic educational day out for the family.

Stately Homes in Essex

For more history and heritage attractions in Essex, check out our wonderful range of stately homes and gardens, from Audley End House & Gardens to Hylands Estate!

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Number of results: 6

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
269 reviews
Hadleigh Castle

Address

Castle Lane, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 2AP

Telephone
+44 (0) 370 333 1181

CustomerCare@English-Heritage.org.uk

Benfleet

The impressive remains of a mighty fortress constructed over seven centuries ago; overlooking the Essex Marshes, the barbican and two towers remain standing today.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
296 reviews
Tilbury Fort

Address

The Fort, Tilbury, Essex, RM18 7NR

Telephone
0870 333 1181

customers@english-heritage.org.uk

Tilbury

Henry VIII built the first fort here, and Queen Elizabeth I famously rallied her army nearby. The present fort is much the best example of its type in England, with its circuit of moats and bastioned outworks.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
275 reviews
Hedingham Castle

Address

Castle Hedingham, HALSTEAD, Essex, CO9 3DJ

Telephone
+44 (0)1787 460261

mail@hedinghamcastle.co.uk

HALSTEAD

Visit Hedingham Castle for a great family day out and a memorable experience. Bring a picnic and explore the beautiful gardens and lakes then take time to explore the 110ft tall Norman Keep.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
562 reviews
Mountfitchet Castle

Address

Mountfitchet Castle, Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, CM24 8LY

Telephone
+44 (0)1279 813237

info@mountfitchetcastle.com

Stansted Mountfitchet

Mountfitchet Castle is a multi-attraction incorporating Mountfitchet Castle & Norman Village of 1066, House on the Hill Museum, Haunted Manor and Dinosaur Encounters with our new animatronic dinosaurs!
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1241 reviews
Colchester Castle Museum

Address

Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ

Telephone
01206 282939

museums@colchester.gov.uk

Colchester

Colchester Castle is the largest Norman Keep in Europe. Constructed on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. The Castle Museum today reveals many fascinating layers of history to visitors.
Pleshey Castle

Address

Pleshey, Chelmsford, Essex

Telephone
+44 (0)1245 360239

Chelmsford

The remains of this imposing motte and bailey castle, built in the 12th century, dominate the picturesque village of Pleshey.