Woodcroft Castle

Overview

Woodcroft Castle is a 13th-century fortified manor house located near Peterborough, on the border between Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. Originally built as a small moated residence, it was later strengthened in the 15th century and became known for its distinctive circular corner tower and gatehouse. Although never intended as a full military fortress, it was defensible enough to withstand brief sieges—and is remembered for its violent capture during the English Civil War. Today, it remains a private residence surrounded by its original moat.

Early history

The castle was established in the late 1200s by the Woodcroft family, who held the manor under the abbey of Peterborough. It was typical of the fortified houses built by prosperous landowners of the time, designed to show status as well as provide modest protection. By the 15th century, the castle had passed to the Clarke family, who made significant improvements, including the addition of the circular tower that remains its most recognisable feature.

Building and layout

Woodcroft Castle was built within a rectangular moated enclosure, with a stone curtain wall surrounding domestic buildings. The surviving structure includes part of the main hall, the gatehouse, and the distinctive round tower at one corner. The tower rises several storeys, with narrow windows and battlements giving it a fortified character. Though small in scale, the building combined practical defence with comfortable living accommodation suited to a gentry household.

Civil War and later history

Woodcroft Castle gained notoriety during the English Civil War when it was occupied by Dr Michael Hudson, a royalist and chaplain to King Charles I. In 1648, the castle was besieged and captured by Parliamentary forces. According to contemporary accounts, Hudson was thrown from the battlements into the moat and killed—a grim reminder of the conflict’s brutality. After the war, the castle continued in private ownership and was later adapted for agricultural use, though the moat and core structure were preserved.

Present condition

Today, Woodcroft Castle remains privately owned but retains much of its medieval character. The moat is still filled with water, enclosing the gatehouse, tower, and part of the hall. The property has been carefully maintained and is listed as a Grade II* building. Though not generally open to the public, it can be viewed from nearby public footpaths. Woodcroft stands as one of the best-preserved examples of a fortified manor house in eastern England and a poignant relic of the English Civil War.