Atop Castle Mound we stand. Feel the history beneath our feet.
This is Cambridge Castle Mound. More than a hill it is a monument. It’s a testament to centuries of conflict power and change.
Originally built after 1068 by William the Conqueror Castle Mound wasn’t just any castle. It controlled a vital route to the north. It was strategically important. The old Roman road from London to York ran right through Cambridge. This made the town vulnerable. It also made it important to control. Picot the high sheriff oversaw the initial construction. He even founded a priory nearby. To create space for the castle 27 houses were demolished. The castle was built as a motte and bailey. This design involved a raised mound the motte and a lower enclosed area the bailey.
The Anarchy a brutal civil war in the 12th century saw Castle Mound under attack. Geoffrey de Mandeville a supporter of Empress Matilda briefly seized it. King Stephen however retook the castle. He even built a supporting fortification at Burwell for extra protection.
Over the centuries Castle Mound saw expansion and decay. King John added a hall and chamber. Edward I undertook massive renovations transforming it into a major stone fortress. This impressive structure included circular towers and a gatehouse. Unfortunately much of Edward I’s work was later reused in the construction of Cambridge’s colleges. Stone from the castle ended up in King’s College and Trinity College. Even Mary I gave away stone for a mansion in Sawston.
During the English Civil War the Parliamentarians occupied Castle Mound. Oliver Cromwell ordered repairs adding earthwork bastions. Eventually however the castle was slighted damaged beyond repair. Its remaining structures were removed in 1785. Only the motte and limited earthworks remain.
The castle gatehouse served as the county gaol for centuries. A new prison replaced it in 1842. That prison was torn down in 1932. Today only the motte and some earthworks survive. Yet here we stand overlooking the city. The view is stunning. Castle Mound a silent witness to Cambridge’s incredible story.