Bodiam Castle

One of the most picturesque castles in England is Bodiam Castle in the south east of England. It was the reason we planned our short break in that part of the country at half term, so we could visit the beautiful place with its moat and surrounding hills. 

It's another National Trust place so, being members at the moment, we didn't have to pay to get in and could enjoy the castle, the small fair surrounding it and the presence of the costumed people stationed around to give information if asked.

Built in the 14th century, the interior was later trashed by Oliver Cromwell but the outside walls remain intact, if a little historically graffitti-ed.

It contains all the traditionally castle-y things like thick walls, slit windows, stunning views of the surrounding countryside, dangerously steep spiral staircases in turrets and secret tiny rooms with old toilets in.

So dress the kids in suitably traditional violent costume if you have them (or yourself if you are that way inclined) and pop down the A21 to Robertsbridge near Hastings and have a look!

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle/