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Laxton Medieval Open Fields

3.9
·10 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore a rare Norman motte and bailey castle and a living medieval open field system, a unique historical agricultural landscape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fields are vibrant green

CrowdLow
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Laxton Medieval Open Fields - Image 1

Laxton Medieval Open Fields

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fields are vibrant green

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a rare Norman motte and bailey castle and a living medieval open field system, a unique historical agricultural landscape.

3.9
(10 reviews)

"A rare glimpse into medieval life, with a well-preserved castle site and still-farmed open fields."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the castle motte and surrounding fields.

🗺️ Use a Map

The castle can be hard to find. A good map or GPS will help you navigate the area effectively.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Motte

The Great Motte

Castle Hill

The imposing earth mound of the motte, a testament to Norman military engineering. Imagine the castle that once stood atop.

Medieval Strip Fields

Medieval Strip Fields

Laxton Village

Witness the remarkably preserved medieval open field system, still farmed today. A living history lesson!

Outer Bailey Ditch

Outer Bailey Ditch

Castle Grounds

Explore the remnants of the outer defenses, offering a glimpse into the castle's strategic layout.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the castle grounds are generally accessible, specific areas might have limited opening times. Check local listings before you go to avoid disappointment. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to truly appreciate the historical significance without the crowds.

Navigating the Landscape

Laxton's open fields are a unique historical feature, but the castle itself can be tricky to locate. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the footpaths and bring a good map or GPS. Don't expect a fully restored castle; it's more about the historical landscape.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Fields are vibrant green
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light on landscape
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

1/100 Things to do in Nottingham 📍 Nottingham Castle #nottingham #nottshappening #nottinghamcastle #nottinghamcity #nottinghamtrent #uon #uniofnottingham
@nottshappening
1K likes • 20.6K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the castle motte and surrounding fields. Reddit

🗺️ Use a Map

The castle can be hard to find. A good map or GPS will help you navigate the area effectively. Reddit

Nottingham Castle - a deeply old historical landmark in Nottingham with 1000 years of stories to tell! Have you visited? #History #historytok #nottingham #visitnottingham #castles #castlesoftheworld #urbanexploring #architecture #thehistorymagpie #medievalhistory #medievaltiktok
@thehistorymagpie
1K likes • 19.1K views

🧐 Look for Interpretation Panels

These panels offer historical context, though some may be worn. Read them to understand the significance of the site. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Countryside

The surrounding area is beautiful. Take time to appreciate the rural charm and the unique agricultural landscape. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the castle motte and surrounding fields. Reddit

🗺️ Use a Map

The castle can be hard to find. A good map or GPS will help you navigate the area effectively. Reddit

🧐 Look for Interpretation Panels

These panels offer historical context, though some may be worn. Read them to understand the significance of the site. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Countryside

The surrounding area is beautiful. Take time to appreciate the rural charm and the unique agricultural landscape. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(10 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Laxton for its unique historical significance, particularly the well-preserved motte and bailey earthworks and the living medieval open field system. It's appreciated as a rare glimpse into the past and a beautiful rural landscape. However, some find the site difficult to navigate and note the lack of facilities and interpretation panels can detract from the experience.

"Huge motte and bailey castle with village enclosure built on land belonging to Geoffrey Alselin possibly shortly after the Norman conquest. It was most likely built under his son in law though, Robert de Caux after Alselins death. A second wave of construction of the castle took place when Robert became Hereditary Keeper of the Royal Forests of Nottingham and Derbyshire. The castle was seized by king John and became a royal residence in the early 13th century. A hall and dovecote are recorded being in the castle. There is a footpath to the castle and it was open to visiting when I went in February 2024."

stephen mudie

"Impossible to find, says my wife.

She's right, but the photos on the Internet of it look nice."

Piers de Winter

"Best preserved Motte and Bailey in Nottinghamshire"

Alan North

What People Like

Unique historical landscape
Preserved open fields
Peaceful countryside

What People Dislike

Hard to find
Limited access
Worn interpretation panels

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Finding the castle can be a challenge, as noted by visitors. It's located near Laxton village in Nottinghamshire. Look for signs for the castle and the open fields. Using a GPS or a detailed map is highly recommended to navigate the rural roads. Reddit

Public transport options to Laxton are limited. It's best to travel by car. If relying on public transport, research bus routes to nearby villages and be prepared for a significant walk. Reddit

Parking is generally available in or near Laxton village. It's usually informal, so arrive early during peak times to secure a spot. Reddit

Cycling is a great way to explore the Nottinghamshire countryside. There are scenic routes that can lead you to Laxton, but be prepared for rural roads. Reddit

Yes, Laxton is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially if you're interested in history and rural landscapes. Combine it with a visit to nearby attractions in Nottinghamshire. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, access to the public footpaths around the castle motte and the open fields is free. However, specific castle areas might have restricted access or special event openings. Reddit

The castle grounds and open fields are typically accessible during daylight hours via public footpaths. Specific internal castle access is limited and may only be available on certain days, like May Day. Reddit

No, the medieval open fields are part of the working landscape and are generally accessible to walk around without an entrance fee. Respect the farmland and stay on designated paths. Reddit

While the motte and bailey structure is visible, much of the castle itself is not accessible to the public. You can view elements like the outer bailey ditch from public footpaths. Reddit

Formal guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, local historical societies or community groups may occasionally offer guided walks, especially during heritage events. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the impressive motte and bailey earthworks of the castle, and witness the unique, still-farmed medieval strip field system. Interpretation panels provide historical context. Reddit

Absolutely! Laxton offers a rare chance to see a well-preserved motte and bailey castle and a living example of the medieval open field system, a significant part of agricultural history. Reddit

Expect to walk on footpaths that can be uneven and grassy. You'll be walking around the castle mound and through the edges of the open fields. Reddit

Facilities are minimal. There are no cafes or public toilets directly at the castle site. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby villages before you arrive. Reddit

Children can enjoy exploring the open spaces and learning about history. The uneven terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the dramatic silhouette of the motte against the sky, the intricate patterns of the strip fields, and the rural charm of the village. Golden hour light is particularly beautiful here. TikTok

Drone usage regulations vary. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone over historical sites or private farmland. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and a warm glow on the landscape. TikTok

General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details in the village or distant views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Laxton offers a fantastic opportunity for families to engage with history in an open, natural setting. The large motte provides a great space for kids to run around and imagine knights and castles. Exploring the open fields can also be an adventure, teaching them about where food comes from and historical farming methods. Reddit

Tips for families: Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the historical landscape. While there are no playgrounds, the open space itself is the playground. Be mindful of the working fields and keep children on marked paths. Reddit

🚶 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Laxton is a must-visit. It's a rare chance to see a well-preserved motte and bailey castle's earthworks and, more significantly, a living medieval open field system. The site offers a tangible connection to Norman military architecture and ancient agricultural practices. Reddit

Recommendations: Take your time to read the interpretation panels to fully grasp the historical context. Consider researching the history of Laxton Castle and its role in medieval England before your visit for a deeper appreciation. Reddit

🌳 Nature & Landscape Lovers

Laxton's appeal extends beyond its historical significance to its beautiful rural setting. The rolling countryside and the unique patterns of the open fields create a picturesque landscape. It’s a peaceful escape for those who appreciate natural beauty and traditional agricultural scenes. Reddit

Best for: Photographers seeking unique rural vistas, walkers looking for gentle trails, and anyone wanting to experience the tranquility of the English countryside. The changing seasons offer different visual delights, from spring greenery to autumn hues. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Laxton Motte and Bailey Castle

Laxton Castle is a significant example of a motte and bailey castle, a type of fortification built during the Norman period. The motte is the large artificial mound, designed to hold a keep or tower, providing a commanding defensive position. The bailey refers to the enclosed courtyard, typically surrounded by a wooden palisade and ditch, which housed barracks, workshops, and other essential buildings. The castle at Laxton was likely constructed shortly after the Norman Conquest, with evidence suggesting it was seized by King John and used as a royal residence in the early 13th century. TikTok

While much of the stone structure has long since disappeared, the impressive earthworks of the motte and the outer bailey ditch remain remarkably well-preserved. Visitors can walk the public footpaths to appreciate the scale and strategic design of this Norman stronghold. The interpretation panels, though sometimes worn, offer valuable insights into its history and construction. Reddit

It's important to manage expectations: Laxton is not a restored castle with intact walls and towers. Instead, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with the archaeological footprint of a medieval fortress and understand its place within the historical landscape. Reddit

The Living Medieval Open Field System

Perhaps the most unique aspect of Laxton is its medieval open field system, which is still in use today. This agricultural landscape is characterized by long, narrow strips of land, known as furlongs, farmed by individual villagers. Each farmer would have strips scattered across different fields, ensuring a mix of soil types and reducing the risk of total crop failure. This system, dating back centuries, is a rare surviving example of traditional farming practices in England. Reddit

Walking through Laxton, you can visually trace the ancient boundaries of these fields. The patterns of cultivation, the way the land is divided, and the communal aspect of farming are all preserved here. This living landscape provides an invaluable educational resource for understanding medieval agriculture and land management. Reddit

It's crucial for visitors to respect the working nature of the fields. Stick to designated footpaths and avoid disturbing crops or livestock. The preservation of this system is a testament to the community's commitment to its heritage, offering a tangible link to the past. Reddit

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