We love
Carisbrooke Castle!

Carisbrooke Castle is, in our opinion, one of the island's 'must see' attractions. Yes, you'll have to pay to get in, but what awaits you beyond the castle walls is worth every penny.

It is open all year round (except 24th - 26th December) and is managed as an ancient monument by English Heritage.


Carisbrooke Castle stands proudly on its own hilltop approximately one mile south-west of Newport town centre. The original castle (a 'motte and bailey' construction) was built during the reign of William the Conqueror on the site of an 8th century Saxon fort. Soon after, in 1100, Henry 1st granted the castle to the new lord of Wight, Richard de Redvers.

Over the next 200 years, the Redvers family added huge protective walls, towers, and a keep, thereby creating the greater part of the impressive fortifications that are still evident.

The Gatehouse

The original gatehouse built by the Redvers was replaced during the 14th and 15th centuries by the massive twin-towered structure you see today. If you look closely, there is still evidence of the portcullises.

Once inside the great walls you will be spoilt for places to visit. The Great Hall and Museum make you feel that you've stepped back in time. Beautiful, 3-D models of the castle show how it has changed over the centuries, while static displays of chain-mail, crossbows and armaments are vivid reminders of our violent past.

The Great Hall and Museum

The castle is perhaps best known as the place where Charles 1st was imprisoned before his execution in January 1649. Stories recount how he twice attempted to escape, but was caught fast by the window bars. One of the rooms in which he lived (and attempted escape) is beautifully displayed as his bedroom.

The other well-known reason for visiting Carisbrooke is to see the donkeys who still, to this day, operate the 16th century treadwheel to bring water from the ancient well.

The well and 16th century treadwheel

The donkeys at Carisbrooke Castle are a huge attraction in the summer months when they work for the benefit of visitors. I hope you'll be lucky enough to see them when you visit. At other times you'll be able to visit them in their stalls.

Carisbrooke donkey, Jill, greets young visitors

If you have the energy to climb the 71, steep, heavily warn steps to the Keep, you will be rewarded by the most stunning views in all directions. You will also see the original castle well which apparently ran dry in the 12th century. From here you can also take 'The Wall Walk' right round the whole castle. We did - and it's well worth the effort - but, for obvious reasons, I would not recommend taking very young children along the parapets.

On the walls of Carisbrooke Castle, looking back at The Keep

Another 'must see' is the fully restored, 13th century, St. Nicholas Chapel, which is now a memorial to Charles 1st and all islanders who lost their lives during the two great wars.

St Nicholas Chapel from the castle walls

At the time of writing (February 2008), a new visitor centre is being constructed near the Gatehouse. It is scheduled to open by the end of April, hopefully in time to enhance your visit.


Carisbrooke Castle is now owned and managed by English Heritage who organise and hold many special events here throughout the year. For further information CLICK HERE to visit the English Heritage website.

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