Tamworth Castle, a Grade I listed building, is a small castle, located next to the River Tame, in the town of Tamworth in Staffordshire England. Tamworth castle was constructed soon after king William 1 invaded England in 1066. The original structure consisted of a wooden tower built on an artificial hill.

Overlooking the River Tame, a castle existed on this site since Anglo-Saxon times, when Ethelfleda the Mercian Queen built defences against Danes (Vikings); the castle served as a residence of the Mercian kings.

The present Tamworth castle dates from the 11th century and was built by the Normans. It is today one of the best preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castles in Britain. Numerous additions were made to the castle over the centuries, especially in the Jacobean period.

Tamworth castle was home to the Marmion family, hereditary Royal Champions to the English Kings from Henry I to Edward I.

During the Civil War, when the castle’s governor was Waldyve Willington, the castle was captured by parliamentary forces after a brief siege. In July, 1645 the castle garrison comprised ten officers and 77 soldiers under the command of Governor Willington. A muster of the garrison on 28 May 1646 lists only 23 soldiers, “the rest of the soldiers being about fiftie are at Lichfield Leguer uppon dutie there with Lt. Ensigne, one sergeant, one corporal and one drummer” (musters SP 28/122-3).

The castle was also depicted in a work by the English Romantic artist J.M.W. Turner.

UKTV History, Britain’s Best Historic Sites: Tamworth Castle achieved 4th place, the only castle to feature in the top ten of Britain’s Best Historic sites, voted for by the UK public.

Tamworth Castle welcomed Prince Charles: On 1 September, HRH Prince Charles visited Tamworth Castle as part of the Mercian Military day held in the Castle Grounds.

Tamworth Castle is the number one heritage attraction located in the town centre of Tamworth. Six wealthy and influential families have owned the castle over the centuries. The medieval motte and bailey castle has welcomed a number of royal visitors including King Henry II, King James I and his son Prince Charles .The ancient sand stone tower and shell wall still dominate views of the Castle today.

Whilst visiting this scheduled ancient monument witness the magnificant late medieval Great Hall, grand Tudor Chambers and Victorian suit of receptions rooms.

The castle hosts a varied and exciting events programme, education service and is also the ideal wedding location.