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Odiham Castle (King John’s Castle): A Tale of Royal Ups and Downs in Hampshire
- Jenn & Leon
- May 17, 2024
- 14 min read
Updated: May 21
Have you ever stumbled upon a magnificent ruin and wondered about its story? Or are you simply just looking for one?
Odiham Castle, almost hidden away in the English countryside near Hook, is one such place. Otherwise known as "King John's Castle," its distinctive octagonal keep hints at a time of power struggles and architectural innovation.
But Odiham's story goes far beyond a single king.
This captivating castle was once a bustling symbol of royal authority. Kings resided within its walls, and its strategic location made it a key point along the route between Winchester and Windsor.
Yet, Odiham has also witnessed the darker side of history. It served as a prison and endured a siege during a rebellion.
As centuries passed, the castle transitioned from a formidable fortress to a hunting lodge, and ultimately, a picturesque ruin.
Intrigued by Odiham's journey? In this blog post, we'll delve into the castle's fascinating history.
We'll explore its construction under King John, its role in medieval conflicts, and the reasons behind its decline.
Join us as we unlock the secrets of Odiham Castle and discover a captivating chapter in England's history.
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Our Odiham Castle Highlights
If ever there was a castle 'off the beaten path', then it is this one! We love visiting castles and historic places, especially special ruins like this.
Tucked away in the countryside just off of the Basingstoke Canal, this is a castle that despite its dilapidated state, is a real gem that caught our attention the moment we read about it.
After watching a compelling documentary on the 300-year Plantagenet Dynasty, it seemed rather fitting that we would visit a major project of perhaps one of its most infamous Kings.
The walk up to the castle is really nice, although you would never know it was there but for the small brown signs pointing you in the right direction!
It is a lovely walk along the narrow canal pathway, its entrance a rather unassuming gap in the trees and foliage that line the path.
Not much is left of Odiham now, with all of its outbuildings, walls, and gardens now lost to history.
All that remains is its octagonal keep, which is still pretty impressive, despite most of it too being lost to time. Honestly, there is not much to see here, and it is rightfully free to browse.
There has been a recent conservation effort, along with some informative signs being placed, so despite its limitations there is still enough to help you picture what once was.
That is almost the best part about Odiham: the imagination it encourages.
It is incredible just how thick the walls are, walls which once withstood a French invasion force with just 13 English soldiers.
Despite its relatively small square footage, it is incredible how attractive this castle was to successive monarchs and earls alike, providing sanctuary, refuge, and even imprisonment capabilities.
For all of King John's faults, he certainly picked a good spot and design for this place. Perhaps his most endearing legacy?
The story of this castle is undoubtedly more than simply what you will see when you get here. That is what makes it just as magical as other, more well-preserved royal residences.
There is definitely a special atmosphere here, and we hope it continues to be protected for future generations.
Read the stories and let your imagination run wild... this is a castle that should never be forgotten!
The History of King John's Castle
Odiham Castle, nicknamed "King John's Castle," boasts a rich history that reflects the power struggles and changing fortunes of medieval England.
Here's a comprehensive look at its journey:
⪢ Royal Beginnings (1207 - 1216)
King John, facing discontent within his realm, commissioned Odiham Castle's construction in 1207.
The strategic location between Winchester and Windsor offered a convenient stopping point and a symbol of royal authority.
The castle stood out with its octagonal keep, a rare feature in England at the time. Flint, a readily available local stone, formed the core structure, while dressed stone likely adorned the exterior, hinting at its grandeur.
John himself frequently resided at Odiham, making it a royal residence. However, the castle also served a darker purpose.
King Henry V's brother, the Duke of Clarence, was imprisoned here, reflecting the castle's dual role as a residence and a jail.
⪢ A Site of Conflict (1216 - 1400)
During the First Barons' War (1215 - 17), tensions between King John and rebellious barons escalated.
In 1215, the English Barons persuaded King Philip of France (with the promise of the English throne to his son Louis) to pressure John into creating fairer land and taxation laws.
Under duress, King John rode from Odiham to Runnymede and put his seal to the Magna Carta, but the Barons saw little change of heart from John and called on Louis and his French army to invade England.
In 1216, the French prince, Louis VIII, besieged Odiham in support of the barons.
Despite a small garrison of just 13 soldiers, the castle held out for two weeks before surrendering with full honors, demonstrating its defensive strength.
Ultimately, the Barons' plans with the French were thwarted, and Henry III became King of England and owner of Odiham after King John died in 1216.
King Henry III commissioned repairs to Odiham Castle shortly after his coronation.
In 1236, Henry gave Odiham to his young widowed sister, Eleanor of Pembrokeshire. Eleanor was soon remarried to the French noble, Simon de Montfort.
He was invested as the 6th Earl of Leicester, and together they transformed the castle into their residence.
Simon was popular, and his political and religious views caused several confrontations with Henry.
In 1265, Simon and his eldest son left Odiham for the last time to lead the second baronial rebellion against a Plantagenet monarch.
Simon met his death during the Battle of Evesham, fighting an army led by the future King Edward I. Eleanor was exiled to France, never to return to England.
Odiham remained under the control of the Plantagenet dynasty, serving as a reminder of their dominance in the region, for a further 200 years.
As the 14th century progressed, Odiham Castle's primary function started to shift. While it likely remained a fortified structure, its use as a royal residence began to decline.
⪢ Transformation & Decline (1400 - 1700)
By the 15th century, Odiham Castle had transitioned primarily into a hunting lodge.
Kings and nobles likely used it as a base for hunting expeditions in the surrounding area. The castle's decline began around the 16th century.
With the development of more advanced weaponry, fortifications like Odiham became less strategically important.
By 1605, records describe Odiham Castle as a ruin. The reasons for its total neglect are not entirely clear, but a combination of factors likely played a role.
The rise of more modern residences, the decline in its military significance, and the cost of maintenance probably all contributed to its abandonment.
⪢ Rediscovering the Past (18th Century - Present)
The construction of the Basingstoke Canal in the late 18th century carved through part of the castle grounds, further altering the landscape.
Archaeological excavations conducted in the mid-20th century unearthed valuable artifacts and provided insights into the castle's layout and daily life within its walls.
Today, Odiham Castle stands as a picturesque ruin, a testament to a bygone era. It offers visitors a glimpse into medieval architecture, military strategy, and the changing fortunes of English royalty.
Odiham Castle's story is one of power, conflict, and ultimately, neglect. Despite its current state, it remains a significant historical site, offering a tangible connection to England's rich past.
Who Was King John?
King John, also known as John Lackland (because he wasn't expected to inherit significant lands), ruled England from 1199 to 1216.
John Plantagenet was the youngest of Henry II's five legitimate sons. He was a complex and controversial figure, known for both his failures and a pivotal event in English history.
John's reign was marked by military struggles. He lost most of England's French territories, including Normandy, to King Philip II of France.
This significantly weakened the Angevin Empire (possessions held by the House of Plantagenet during the 12th and 13th centuries).
However, John's reign also saw the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215. This landmark document, forced upon him by rebelling barons, limited the king's power and established certain legal rights.
It's considered a cornerstone of English liberty and a precursor to modern constitutions.
Was King John a Taxman or a Tyrant? His reputation is certainly tarnished by accusations of high taxes and ruthless behavior.
This discontent among the barons fueled the rebellion that led to the Magna Carta.
While the historical accuracy is debated, King John is often depicted as an antagonist in Robin Hood stories.
This portrayal reflects the negative perception of his reign. Regardless of how he was perceived and all of the struggles of his reign, King John had a significant impact on English history.
While he suffered military defeats, the Magna Carta signed under his duress remains a lasting legacy. And honestly, could we really imagine a history without the awesome story of Robin Hood?!
What is the Magna Carta?
The Magna Carta, meaning "Great Charter" in Latin, is a landmark document signed by King John of England on June 15, 1215, at Runnymede, a meadow near Windsor.
King John's reign was marked by high taxes, unpopular wars, and a disregard for feudal customs. This discontent led a group of powerful barons to rebel against him.
The Magna Carta was essentially a peace treaty, forced upon John by the barons, to limit his power and address their grievances.
⪢ Limiting Royal Power
For the first time, a document explicitly stated that the king was not above the law. The Magna Carta outlined restrictions on the king's ability to levy taxes, imprison people, and seize property without legal justification.
⪢ Foundation for Legal Rights
While some of its specific clauses are no longer relevant, the Magna Carta established the principle that everyone, even the king, is subject to the law.
This concept became a cornerstone of English legal tradition and influenced the development of constitutions and legal systems around the world, including the United States.
⪢ A Symbol of Liberty
The Magna Carta has become a powerful symbol of individual rights and limitations on governmental power.
Although its initial focus was on protecting the privileges of the nobility, it paved the way for later advancements in human rights.
⪢ A Complex Legacy
It's important to note that the Magna Carta wasn't a perfect document. It primarily addressed the concerns of wealthy landowners and didn't offer protections for the vast majority of the population.
Additionally, King John never truly accepted his limitations, and the document went through several revisions in the following years.
Despite its limitations, the Magna Carta's influence on legal systems and its symbolic representation of standing up to tyranny make it a document of enduring historical significance.
10 Interesting Facts About Odiham Castle
1. Unique Keep: Odiham Castle boasts the only octagonal keep (central tower) in all of Britain. This unusual design sets it apart from other castles and hints at its innovative construction.
2. Royal Residence: Kings weren't strangers to Odiham. King John, for whom the castle is nicknamed, frequently resided there. It also served as a prison for King Henry V's brother, the Duke of Clarence.
3. 'Flintastic' Construction: The castle's thick walls are a marvel of engineering. Built almost entirely of flint, a readily available local stone, they provided formidable defense.
4. Dressed for Success: While the core structure was flint, the castle wasn't all about rough and tumble. Evidence suggests the exterior was once clad in dressed stone, giving it a more polished look.
5. Moated & Magnificent: An additional layer of defense originally surrounded the keep – a moat and ditch. This watery obstacle discouraged unwelcome visitors and made storming the castle even more challenging.
6. A Haven for Outbuildings: Odiham wasn't just a central keep. Archaeological finds hint at an array of outer buildings that likely housed everything from kitchens to stables, making it a bustling mini-settlement.
7. Plantagenet Power: The castle's construction is attributed to the Plantagenet dynasty, a powerful line of English monarchs who ruled for over 300 years. Odiham served as a symbol of their authority in the region.
8. A Long and Eventful History: Odiham Castle's story stretches back centuries. Its construction began in the 12th century, and it remained in use for hundreds of years, witnessing various historical events.
9. Partial Picture: Today, only the octagonal keep remains of the once-extensive castle complex. Time and neglect have taken their toll, but the remaining structure offers a glimpse into its former glory.
10. Transformation Through Time: Odiham Castle transitioned from a formidable fortress to a ruin over the centuries. Despite its current state, it serves as an important reminder of medieval England's architecture and history.
Odiham Castle Opening Times & Ticket Prices
⪢ Opening times
Odiham Castle is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.
⪢ Ticket prices
There is no entry fee for Odiham Castle or the surrounding grounds.
How to Get to Odiham Castle
Odiham Castle is located in North Hampshire, between Basingstoke and Farnham, tucked beside the peaceful Basingstoke Canal.
While Odiham Castle doesn't have direct access by public transport, getting there is fairly straightforward. Here are your options:
By Bus
The Stagecoach route 13 bus runs between Hook and Odiham. The closest stop to the castle is Castle Bridge Cottages, a pleasant 5-minute ride from Hook station.
From the bus stop, you'll need to follow the Basingstoke Canal towpath for about a mile (1.6 km) to reach the castle.
Buses run every two hours, Monday to Saturday, so be sure to check the timetable before you go.
By Car
By Bike / On Foot
By Taxi
By Train
⪢ Contact Information for Odiham Castle
● Address: North Warnborough, Hook RG29 1HQ
● Open 24 hours, 7 days per week
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Hook and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Hook hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Tips for Visiting Odiham Castle
● Wear comfortable walking shoes: Although the site is flat, you’ll need to walk a grassy and sometimes muddy towpath along the Basingstoke Canal to reach the castle. Sturdy footwear makes all the difference.
● Follow the canal trail: The castle is a short walk (approx. 1 mile) from Odiham village or Greywell. It's a peaceful, scenic stroll that adds to the experience—great for combining nature and history.
● Bring a camera or phone: The ruined keep, surrounding moat, and rural setting make for lovely, atmospheric photos, especially early morning or golden hour.
● Pack a picnic: There are grassy spots around the ruins perfect for a quiet picnic. No shops or cafés on-site, so bring snacks or stop in Odiham village before your visit.
● Allow around 30–45 minutes at the site: It’s a small but interesting stop, perfect for stretching your legs or combining with other local heritage spots like King John’s hunting lodge or Dogmersfield Park.
● Great for dogs: The trail and open grounds are dog-friendly, just remember to keep pups on a lead around wildlife and pick up after them.
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Odiham Castle
King John had many faults and made many mistakes, but the construction of this castle was not one of them.
What is left of it might only be big enough to fit in one picture, but the tales and history of this place are extensive enough to fill out more than just this small blog!
While much of the castle has been lost to history, it is a place of 'what once was', and is also of significant English historical importance.
If you are castle and history buffs like us, it is most certainly a spot worthy as part of a castle tour, just for that alone.
There is nothing else to do here, though, aside from enjoying the canal stroll, so be prepared for a quick visit!
FAQ: Odiham Castle – Exploring King John’s Forgotten Fortress
Where is Odiham Castle located?
Odiham Castle is near the village of Odiham in Hampshire, England, nestled beside the Basingstoke Canal. It’s accessible via a peaceful walking trail from Odiham or North Warnborough, with free parking nearby.
Who built Odiham Castle and why?
What remains of the castle today?
Is there an entrance fee?
How long should I plan to spend there?
Is the site suitable for children and families?
Is Odiham Castle accessible for people with mobility issues?
Is the castle linked to the Magna Carta?
Are there facilities nearby?
Is Odiham Castle worth visiting?
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While not the most spectacular of castles, the history of Odiham is significant in Enland's history, expecially on a political front. This humble castle still retains its allure, and is well worth a visit.