Photo Gallery
Associated Web Link: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/portchester-castle
Transcript Of Narration
While we are on the subject of fortification lets move to Portchester where we will find Portchester castle. Portchester Castle has many elements from different eras and overlooks Portsmouth. The keep is the central stronghold of the castle, it dates from the Norman time and provided secure residential accommodation. Originally it was a single story building that was raised to the present height in the 14th century and in the 18th and 19th centuries was used as a prison.
Richard II's palace built between 1396 and 1399 forms the south and west ranges of the inner bailey with the great hall to the south and range of apartments to the west. The Constable's house is Norman and was rebuilt in the fourteenth century. It provided accommodation for the custodian of the castle.
Ashton's Tower was added by Sir Robert of Ashton between 1376 and 1381 who was constable during this time. It was added as an additional defence as an extension to the constable's house. The east ranges date from the 13th century and were made into a mansion in the 17th century.
The Gatehouse was of Norman origin and was progressively extended between the 12th and 17th centuries. The church was built for the Augustinian priory founded here in the 1120s which moved to Southwick.
The Tudor Storehouse was erected in the 1520s and was later removed to Portsmouth. The outer walls of the Roman fort were very well preserved and the Landgate had Roman origins and was rebuilt at various times.
For more information or some pictures of the castle have a look at www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/conProperty.207.
