Visit a castle and have a great day out the ones below are near to the park.
Caister Castle - the remains of a 15th century brick built castle surrounded by a moat. Built between 1432 and 1446, including a 100ft tower. The castle suffered major damage in 1469, when it was besieged and captured by the Duke of Norfolk. The castle fell into fell into disrepair in the 17th century, when a new house was built nearby. The castle's tower remains intact and can be climbed by visitors. Restricted summer opening times and entrance charges apply, to both the castle and adjacent motor museum.
Bungay Castle - is the remains of a late 12th century castle. Originally built around 1100. The castle was further developed in 1294 when the massive gate towers were added. Some year later the castle reverted to the Crown, eventually falling into disrepair and ruin. Admission to the castle keep is free, but donations are welcomed.
Framlingham Castle - is an intact 12th century fortress, an early caste was destroyed and replaced by the one you see today. Using a curtain wall with thirteen strong towers to defend the castle. Despite these new defences, the castle was taken by King John in 1216 after a two day siege. By the end of the century, Framlingham had become a luxurious country retreat. The castle was home to Mary Tudor before she became Queen in 1553. Restricted opening times and entrance charges apply.
Colchester Castle Museum - William the Conqueror's first stone castle and largely intact. Building began around 1069 but halted in 1080 due to the threat of Viking invasion, the castle was completed by 1100. Re-cycled materials from the former Roman town can clearly be seen in the building structure. The castle was besieged and eventually captured by King John in 1215, following his altercation with rebellious barons. Much of the castle was in ruins by the 16th century, although in 1645 it was serving as the county prison and the self-styled Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins interrogated and imprisoned suspected witches here. In 1922, the Castle and parkland were gifted to the town and now serves as a public museum.
Norwich Castle - is an intact Norman castle keep, now a museum, built around 1067 by William the Conqueror. The stone keep which stands today, was built some 60 years later. Used as a gaol between 1220 and 1887, the castle was bought by the city of Norwich to be used as a museum. Restricted opening times and entrance charges apply
Castle Rising - a well preserved 12th century castle and earthwork defences. Built in around 1138. Used as a royal residence and a royal mint. Between 1330 - 1358, it was the residence of the exiled former queen Isabella of France, widow of the murdered Edward II, who died here. One of the most famous 12th century castles in England, the well preserved stone keep is amongst the finest surviving examples of its kind and is surrounded by 12 acres of earthwork defences. Restricted opening times and entrance charges apply.