Farleigh Hungerford Castle Castles
Farleigh Hungerford was begun in the 1370s by Sir Thomas Hungerford, Speaker of the Commons, and extended in the 15th century by his son Walter, Lord Hungerford, Agincourt veteran and distinguished medieval statesman. The remains of their fortress, built in the most up-to-date and fashionable quadrangular style of the time, include two tall corner towers, along with a walled outer court incorporating a complete castle chapel and attendant priest's house.
Crowded with fine family monuments and bedecked with wall paintings, the chapel stands above a crypt where the lead coffins of 16th and 17th-century Hungerfords are still visible. These have 'death masks' of the deceased indented into them, and are probably the best examples of their type in Britain.
The colourful Hungerford family included two members executed during the Wars of the Roses and another - who imprisoned his wife here for four years - beheaded for alleged treason and witchcraft by Henry VIII. One Lady Hungerford was hanged for murdering her first husband and burning his body in the castle's kitchen oven, another was charged with adultery and attempted poisoning.
The chequered history of Farleigh and its owners is told in new interpretation panels, extensive new displays in the Priests House, and a new audio tour. Much improved facilities for disabled visitors include a touch-screen virtual tour, while new family and educational facilities include a 'book box', a schools base and examples of historic costumes.
Attraction Details
For enquiries about Farleigh Hungerford Castle, please contact the attraction using the details below.
Address, Farleigh Hungerford, Somerset, BA2 7RS
Opening times10am - 6pm
Entry costs
Attraction typeCastles
Hotels near Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Staying overnight in Farleigh Hungerford?
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Stowford Mill House
Situated in tranquil countryside but only 9 miles from the historic city of Bath, Stowford Mill House offers bed and breakfast accommodation on a working farm. Free parking is possible on site, and free WiFi is accessible in most guest rooms..
Longacre
Situated in Freshford in the Wiltshire Region, 7 km from Bath, Longacre features a sun terrace and views of the garden. Free WiFi is provided and free private parking is available on site. Some rooms have a seating area for your convenience.
The Westwoods
Located in the village of Upper Westwood, The Westwoods are just 7 miles from the Roman city of Bath. The property offers free on-site parking and free Wi-Fi access for all guests..
Shrubdown
Situated 5 miles from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath city centre, Shrubdown is set in 3 acres of parkland and scenic gardens, in the picturesque village of Freshford. This country retreat also features free on-site parking..
Bath Lodge Castle
In a magnificent towered castle, surrounded by Somerset countryside, the 5-star Bath Lodge Castle has a pavilion spa and boutique bedrooms. The beautiful grounds feature an ancient deer forest and flowing stream..
The Brewery Vaults
Set in Freshford in the Wiltshire Region, this holiday home is 7 km from Bath. It provides free private parking. Bristol is 24 km from The Brewery Vaults, while Weston-super-Mare is 48 km away.
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