Corfe Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Dorset. It sits proudly above the pretty village of the same name.
The historic sight has seen many things over the years, with tales of kings and princesses to wars and gruesome murders.
Sat between Wareham and Swanage, it holds a deep history and is a much-loved sight for tourists and locals.
No matter how many times you return, the ancient site will always hold your interest with its slanted walls, secret rooms and amazing views.
Today, the castle is owned by the National Trust and is open daily to all. It’s an excellent place to explore and fun for all the family.
This article will highlight a brief history and what to expect at Corfe Castle.
Table of Contents
A Brief Corfe Castle History
To start at the ‘beginning’ before the castle was built. In 978, a young King Edward visited his half-brother at the Saxon stronghold.
During his visit, he was stabbed to death, and the mystery of who murdered him still carries on today.
Many believed that his stepmother was behind the murder as she wanted her son to take the throne. The murder of the king was just the start of a long line of grizzly killings.
The castle was found by William the Conquerer. Throughout the years, Kings have lived and stayed at Corfe Castle and built extra parts to the site, such as an inside toilet, a gloriette and fancy interiors.
One notable king, King John, who reined from 1199-1216, was notable for a troubled reign.
He is said to have imprisoned a princess and 25 knights. Although a prisoner, the princess was treated well and lived in style whilst the knights were thrown into the oubliette, forgotten about and left to starve to death.
After King John’s reign, the castle was then passed onto private owners. More notably, the Bankes family, a prominent family in Dorset.
During the Civil War, Lady Mary Bankes led the defence of the castle during two sieges against Oliver Cromwell.
After six centuries, an act of parliament ordered for Corfe Castle to be destroyed. Deep holes were dug and packed with gunpowder to bring the castle down.
Today, walking around the castle, you’ll notice sloping walls and a strange state of ruin due to the gunpowder.
The castle belonged to the Bankes family for three and a half centuries, and in 1982, Ralph Bankes gave the castle to the National Trust.
Spooky Tales of Corfe Castle
Many ghostly stories have been shared over the years, including one of a headless woman in a white nightgown believed to be the ghost of Lady Bankes.
Another tale is that of a weeping child within the grounds, yet no child is around at the time; orbs and flickering lights have also been reported.
Are you brave enough to explore the ancient grounds? You can read more about Corfe Castle and other haunted places in Dorset here.
Corfe Castle in Present Time
Today, the castle is a thriving spot for visitors to explore the grounds and imagine what life must have been like many years ago.
Little ones will love visiting a real castle; along the way, you may discover secret rooms, murder holes and arrow loops.
There are interactive checkpoints as you walk around the site giving you information about the history and certain parts of the castle. Activities are often out for children to complete, adding to the fun adventure.
The National Trust often holds exciting events for visitors to enjoy, such as children’s scavenger hunts, guided walks and seasonal activities, including school holiday fun.
💡 Interesting Fact: Did You Know Dorset Has 10 Castles? Here’s Where You Can Find Them
Dogs are welcome on a lead, but please be mindful of the resident sheep and goats who live happily and freely on the castle hill.
Getting to the top, you’re met with some amazing panoramic views; you can see for miles over the Purbecks or over towards the beautiful Poole Harbour.
Other facilities include a charming 18th-century tea room and garden serving hot and cold drinks, light bites and sweet treats.
A second-hand bookshop is located in the Castle View Welcome Centre.
There are some lovely things to do in the village of Corfe Castle. You can find pubs with brilliant views of the castle, such as The Greyhound Inn.
Also, there’s the Corfe Castle model village or a traditional steam train you can ride to Swanage.
To find out more about Corfe Castle, visit the National Trust website here.
📍 The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
After visiting the castle, why not embark on the scenic Corfe Castle to Swanage walk for more incredible views?
