Thetford Castle
| Thetford Castle | |
|---|---|
| Norfolk, England | |
Thetford Castle | |
| Site information | |
| Type | Motte and bailey |
| Owner | Local authority |
| Open to the public | Yes |
| Condition | Earthworks remain |
| Location | |
Shown within Norfolk | |
| Coordinates | 52°24′40″N 0°45′17″E / 52.4112°N 0.7547°E |
| Grid reference | grid reference TL87468281 |
| Site history | |
| Events | Revolt of 1173–1174 |
Thetford Castle is a medieval motte and bailey castle in the market town of Thetford in the Breckland area of Norfolk, England. The first castle in Thetford, a probable 11th-century Norman ringwork called Red Castle, was replaced in the 12th century by a much larger motte and bailey castle on the other side of the town. This new castle was largely destroyed in 1173 by Henry II, although the huge motte, the second-largest man-made mound in England, remained intact. The motte, recognised as a scheduled monument, now forms part of a local park, and the remains are known variously as Castle Hill, Castle Mound and Military Parade.