What is a Motte and Bailey Castle? - History Year 7

The Motte and Bailey is a type of castle built across England after the Norman conquest in 1066.

Thousands of motte and baileys were built across England and Wales during the Norman period.

William the Conqueror built Motte and Bailey to assert his control and intimidate his subjects.

Motte. This was a man-made hill, which was hard to attack and a good lookout point.

Bailey. This was a courtyard which contained buildings where people lived and worked.

Moat. This was a stream surrounding the castle for extra protection.

Keep. This was the last line of defense.

Drawbridge. This was the entrance to the castle, the bridge could open or close.

Palisade. This was a wooden fence which protected the castle.

They were cheap and used readily available materials, e.g. timber.

They were hard to capture due to their height and moat.

They were quick and easy to build.

Timber burns easily, enemies used flaming arrows to burn down the castles.

Timber rots over time and many motte and baileys fell into disrepair.

Motte and baileys were gradually replaced by stone castles. Stone castles were stronger and did not catch fire.

There are still many motte and bailey castles around today.