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About
The Castle remains, now protected as a scheduled monument, sit towering on a hillside, rising out of flat land. From the castle you can see beautiful panoramic views of the Thames estuary, overlooking the Leigh Marshes, making it a perfect spot for a picnic, dog walk or stroll.
Now in the care of English Heritage, the Castle was once an important building in the history of the monarchy. Built in the 1230’s by the Earl of Kent, Hubert de Burgh, 100 years later it was a loved residence of King Edward III and a played a key role in defending the Thames Estuary against the French raids during the Hundred Years War.
Since then it’s beautiful setting has inspired the likes of English painter John Constable and more. And today, the romantic ruins consist of two distinctive drum towers with unusual bands of flint decoration and a barbican gate.
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Facilities
Site Features
- English Heritage Property
Map & Directions
Road Directions
Hadleigh Castle is a 5 minute drive from Hadleigh via Castle Lane. There is no car park on site, but there is on-street parking near the start of the footpath to the castle off Castle Lane
Public Transport Directions
Access by Foot: The castle is accessible by foot from Hadleigh town and is a 15-20 minute walk. Access by Rail: There are two railway stations close by: Leigh-on-Sea is 2 miles away or Benfleet station is 3 miles away.