During the Civil War the castle was defended by the Gallant Lady Isabel. Eventually Stafford castle was overrun and demolished by the Parliamentarians

Stafford Castle standing as a silent guardian, has dominated the township of Stafford since 1100 when William the Conqueror had his army build a wooden fortification in an attempt to subdue the rebellious local populace.

As with all Norman castles of the time, this fortification took the guise of a motte and bailey construction.

The destiny of the castle and that of the Stafford family fluctuated greatly over the following centuries.

Stafford seems to have led a very quiet life for a castle as there have been no written records or tales of any major conflicts until the Civil War.

Earl Ralph a founding member of the Order of the Garter built a stone keep on top of the original motte during 1347.

In 1444, Humphrey Stafford was created Duke of Buckinghamshire with the castle reaching the peak of its existence. By the beginning of the 17th century the castles fortune was in decline and her finances nearly depleted.

During the Civil War the castle was defended by the Gallant Lady Isabel. Eventually Stafford castle was overrun and demolished by the Parliamentarians.

1813, saw a slight revival of the castles fortunes when it was rebuilt in the Gothic Revival Style but all to no avail. The castle fell once aging in to ruin throughout the following century and today is a slight shell of its glorious past.

An extensive program of archaeological excavations has unearthed many of the castles hidden secrets. And today the castles ruins, together with a 15th century style herb garden which has been planted with herbs that were found recorded in an inventory taken in 1537, gives visitors a brief insight into the 900 year history of the castle.

Tourist Information

Opening Hours

April to October

Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays   10am to 5pm

November to March

Saturday and Sunday only 10am to 4pm

Free admission with the exception of some events.