The curiously named Castle Rising Castle has one of the largest and most intact stone keeps of any castle in Britain. The 12th century Norman fortress is surrounded by extensive earthworks that also contain the ruins of a Norman church, thought to be older than the castle itself. Despite being built during a turbulent period in history it was erected as a symbol of power and prestige rather than purely as a defensive stronghold.

Its ownership has changed hands a number of times throughout history but its most famous resident was Queen Isabella, widow and alleged murderess of Edward II. She was often visited there by her son, King Edward III and grandson, the Black Prince. During the Tudor period, when a ruin, it passed into the hands of the Dukes of Norfolk and today still remains under ownership of the Howard family, albiet under the stewardship of English Heritage.