Brightwell Castle

Motte and ditch of Brightwell Castle

Brightwell Castle stood in the village of Brightwell-cum-Sotwell in Berkshire, found between Didcot and Wallingford, at SU578908.

The castle was built in 1145 by King Stephen. At the time there was civil war between himself and his cousin the Empress Matilda, whose headquarters were at nearby Wallingford Castle. In 1153 the castle was destroyed by Matilda's son, who later became King Henry II.

A manor house now stands on the site.

References

• Brightwell Castle
• Fry, Plantagenet Somerset, The David & Charles Book of Castles, David & Charles, 1980. ISBN 0-7153-7976-3

• Maps:
  • 51°36’47"N, 1°9’60"W
  • SU578908