Orford Castle, with its unique polygonal tower keep, was built by Henry II in the late 12th century to re-impose royal authority in Suffolk after the Anarchy. The Anarchy was a civil war fought over a succession crisis that caused widespread breakdown in law and order between 1135 and 1153.

The then newly-completed castle served its purpose in 1173 with its garrison deterring a rebellion against the King. It was captured during a subsequent Barons rebellion against King John, a conflict that led to the creation of the Magna Carta. Orford Castle's use as a royal stronghold eventually became redundant and it was sold to become a residence in 1336. It was opened as a public attraction 600 years later.