A mini-me castle, Bodiam was built by Sir Edward Dallingbridge in 1385 when he was granted a ‘Licence to Crenellate’. Not strategically placed, nor large enough for meaningful defence, the castle exhibited its owner’s wealth and prestige, and was the centre of a thriving working estate.

Bodiam’s outer walls are intact, surrounded by a picture-book moat but it was disappointing to find nothing inside: its living quarters largely destroyed during the English Civil War, leaving only the tower rooms to explore – via very tight spiral staircases.

Climbed to the top of the Postern tower for the best views of surrounding countryside.