(Click on the photos for more pictures at the Flickr site)
Hadleigh Castle was originally built in the 1230s by Hubert de Burgh who was Justiciar (chief minister) under King John. Shortly after its completion, de Burgh had a falling out with the King and was imprisoned with the castle falling into royal hands. It was only in the mid 14th century, during the 100 years war that it achieved noted importance as a potential defence against French invasion. Edward III initiated an extensive rebuilding project during which most of what remains today was constructed. As the threat of invasion faded, the castle fell from popularity and was eventually sold to Lord Riche in 1551 who sold off building materials.
On the face of it, this is an ideal location for a castle, a ridge of high ground affording excellent views of the Thames estuary. Unfortunately, the ground was unstable and as early as 1274 problems with subsidence and slippage were recorded. Below the standing remains shown in the photos can be found sections of masonry that have slipped down the slope.
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