British Castles

Delve into the fortified history of Britain with a guide that brings the nation’s ancient strongholds to life for the curious listener. The book traces the evolution of defensive architecture from the earliest earthworks—simple mounds and ditches that marked the first attempts at protection—to the imposing stone keeps that defined the medieval skyline. By weaving together the latest archaeological findings with clear explanations, it reshapes long‑held ideas about when and how different castle types emerged, offering a fresh narrative that’s both scholarly and easy to follow.

Vivid, full‑page colour illustrations accompany detailed plans and diagrams, letting you picture the towering battlements of Bodiam, the intricate layout of Hedingham Keep, and the hidden complexities of lesser‑known sites. These visuals, paired with concise commentary, reveal how modern research distinguishes Saxon burhs from Norman motte‑and‑bailey fortifications, and why many traditional attributions have been revised. Listeners will come away with a richer appreciation of Britain’s stone‑clad heritage and the people who built, defended, and transformed these iconic structures.