HEREFORD

The first town defences were erected around 850 and were then extended in 900 to cover the area (Castle Green) which later became the castle. This was started in about 1050 and was probably of motte and bailey design as some remains of the motte are visible. The castle was rebuilt, again in wood, after the Norman invasion. It was strengthened with stone and enlarged during the second half of the 12th century with the keep being added a few years after. In the fifteenth century it needed much repair as it had fallen into ruins and after additions it was described as one of the strongest in England. By the the end of the Civil War it was falling into decay again and was demolished and the motte reduced. Apart from the building in the south-west corner (photo), thought to be the Governor's residence, nothing now remains apart from the once enclosed Green and part of the moat.