| One of the most visited features of the
Laxton landscape is its motte and bailey castle, which stands to the
north of the village. It is a feature of interest to a wide range of
people from tourists to scholars and has been the subject of much
research. The summit of the castle affords
panoramic views of the open fields, the surrounding woods and villages
and as far afield as Lincoln cathedral and features in most tours of the
village. It is believed to have been added after the original
construction as a viewing platform.
The castle consists of an inner and outer bailey,
which were secure areas surrounded by stockade fencing. Simple dwellings
were constructed in this area where the livestock was also kept. The
inner area was cultivated in small plots which provided food for the
community. Another source of food was fish and below the castle to the
north west the remains of fish ponds can be seen. The motte was the most
secure part of the construction with a tower occupying the highest
point. The Lord of the Manor resided in this area.
The three gabled manor house was built in the inner
bailey after the decline of the castle as a defensive structure. The
1635 map by Mark Pierce shows dovecotes, brew houses and orchards in the
same area. |
| Laxton Castle in January 2006. For many
years it was characterised by a leaning tree, which was
removed for safety reasons in November 2005. |
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