Attraction in Farnham
Farnham Castle (Bishops Palace)
Castle Street
Farnham
Surrey
GU9 0AG
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Historical associations and nearly continuous occupancy make the Castle one of the most important historical buildings in the south of England.
For 800 years, the Bishops of Winchester used the Castle as a home and administrative centre. Powerful men from the Norman Conquest until the Tudors, the bishops often shaped English politics. Nine were Lord Chancellors. Most of the monarchs of England from King John to Queen Victoria visited or stayed at the castle.
The Castle saw little conflict but it was the scene of fighting during the Civil Wars. With the Reformation, Bishop Morley restored the residential buildings, retaining the shell of the medieval structure but re-modeling the interior, particularly the Great Hall. However, no bishop has lived at the castle since 1955.
The residential part is now occupied by Farnham Castle International Briefing and Conference Centre. Fully residential, it is available for conferences and corporate events. There are guided tours on Wednesday afternoons. The keep has recently been restored with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund and is now managed by Farnham Castle on behalf of English Heritage. It is open all year round (except late December to 1 February).
Details
Months Open: All year, Wed 2pm - 4pm
April - Aug, Fridays 2.30pm only
Groups/Parties Welcome: Yes - By prior arrangement
Car Parking: Yes
Wedding Facilities: Yes - receptions only
Conference Facilities: Yes
Admission Price: Free
More Attractions nearby
New Ashgate Gallery (0.25 miles)
Farnham Castle (Keep) (0.39 miles)
Museum of Farnham (0.49 miles)
Packhouse (1.34 miles)
Rural Life Centre (2.52 miles)
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