Christchurch Castle, first known as Twynham Castle, was built in the twelfth century. All that remains of the castle are some of the walls of the keep situated on top of a very tall mound. The dense thickness of the walls, still visible today, are evidence that here was once a strong castle.

The only other surviving structure is the constable’s house, which is Norman in design, built in 1160. The constable was the local military commander, the representative of the king, and the house in its original state must have been very impressive and comfortable for the period. The house stands on the west bank of the River Avon, and its design and dimensions are clear from the ruins. Of particular interest is the decoration of the windows of what must have been the great hall and also the tall chimney.

The castle was the site of fighting during the English civil war and later in 1644 when Parliamentary troops captured the castle and took 400 men prisoner.

In 1652 an order was delivered for the castle’s destruction, so it went the way of many of the other fine buildings throughout the land. Fortunately there are ruins to offer a hint of what transpired throughout history.