Penhallam Manor, Week St Mary, Cornwall
These low, grass-covered ruins are the remains of a 13th century manor house that was surrounded by a moat. It was built by Andrew de Cardinham. The de Cardinhams were a family of minor barons who profited from the favour of King John (reigned 1199–1216). They also held Restormel Castle. Moated manor houses are found mainly in central and eastern England. They are rare in the south-west which means that Penhallam is particularly unusual. As it was abandoned in the 14th century, its full medieval ground plan has survived unaltered by later building work. It seems to have been lived in for a relatively short time. Local people would then have helped themselves to the building materials, quickly reducing the deserted shell to its foundations. This property is now in the care of English Heritage.
