Shell keep castle and associated fishponds at Snodhill, Snodhill

Shell keep castle and associated fishponds at Snodhill, Snodhill, Herefordshire HR3 6BG

11th century motte and bailey castle with 3 baileys, substantial masonry remains and extensive earthwork features. The castle has a unique early 12th century 12 sided tower keep standing on top of its motte and a newly discovered second independently defensible North keep in the main bailey. Recent archaeological excavation has found that the castle is one of the earliest in England to receive masonry defences (1090-1101) a very early square keep has been found under the 12 sided keep and a curtain wall has been found defencing a small triangular inner bailey. The castle had a long occupational and architectural history ranging from the 11th century to the 17th century.

Opening Arrangements

Open to the public at any reasonable time.

Parking Spaces

10

10 cars on roadside to the left of the entrance gate. Very limited parking in Snodhill village, please use the roadside parking to the left of the entrance gate.