Orford Castle

Orford Castle is an English Heritage medieval fortress in the village of Orford on the Suffolk coast, dominated by one of the most complete and unusual keeps in England: a polygonal tower keep built for Henry II around 1165. Families can explore the keep from basement to roof, climbing 91 steps through the castle's chambers, chapel and kitchen, with hands-on features and multimedia guides bringing its history to life. A model shows how the castle looked when first built, and the upper hall houses the Orford Museum Trust exhibition with changing displays of local finds - including the story of the mysterious 'Wild Man of Orford'. From the roof there are magnificent views over Orford Ness, the river and the sea. The grounds around the castle are open for picnics (two picnic tables available), and audio tours are included in the ticket price. Dogs on leads are welcome. Facilities: gift shop at the entrance to the keep (accessed via 15 steps), free car park for members with 20 spaces 50m from the entrance, and additional pay-and-display parking at Orford Quay. Please note there are no toilets on site. The keep's 91 steep stairs mean it is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility, though the grounds are pushchair friendly.