The first castle to be built in England after the Norman conquest. Pevensey Castle resides in East Sussex, England, along the southern coast. Its strategic location near Pevensey Bay is why a fortification had existed here since around 290 when the Romans built the Saxon Shore fort of Anderitum. After the Roman occupation ended, the fort walls protected the area until at least the late 5th century.

After entering the Roman walls via Roman East Gate, the medieval castle and its inner bailey are visible to the left. It’s a stone castle ruin similar to others in England. Upon remembering Pevensey Castle as the first fortification built by William the Conqueror nearly 1,000 years ago, its awe-inspiring history becomes evident. William would not recognize the castle today as it was simply a wooden motte and bailey when he erected it in 1066.

The gatehouse is one of the predominant features of Pevensey Castle. While it no longer consists of two majestic drum towers flanking the vaulted entranceway, the single remaining tower still conveys one of the earliest examples of this twin-tower medieval design. The postern gate that once provided access to the shoreline from the castle represents an additional noteworthy portion of the architecture. During sieges, it enabled ingress and egress of supplies to/from the castle unless besiegers restricted access to the sea. Moreover, the Roman walls of Fort Anderitum still exist around the medieval castle.

After being concealed under a dirt mound until rediscovery during the early 20th century, the foundations of the keep illustrate a stunning aspect of the castle. The impressions of two massive towers flanking the entrance suggest a great tower once comprising the keep and domestic apartments.

Since guided tours do not exist for Pevensey Castle, I highly recommend the purchase of a guidebook upon paying admission for entry within the gift shop. It contains helpful information as you explore the castle. There is also an audio tour available in the gift shop. An extensive visit only requires a hald day at best, an excursion to nearby Hastings Castle on the same day is suggested.