Unlocking the Secrets of King John's Castle at Odiham Ep 41

Just off the Basingstoke Canal in Odiham, is King John's Castle.
The castle holds a significant place in the history of the region. Built during the reign of King John in the early 13th century, the castle served as a crucial defensive structure during a turbulent period in English history. It played a pivotal role in protecting the strategic routes through Hampshire and safeguarding the interests of the monarchy.

Odiham Castle is open to the public. The only visible remains are part of the octagonal keep and outlying earthworks.

Construction of King John's Castle began around 1207, as part of a series of fortifications built by King John during his reign. The site was possibly chosen by King John because he had visited the area in 1204 and it lay halfway between Windsor and Winchester.

The castle was primarily designed as a stronghold, featuring sturdy stone walls, towers, and a large gatehouse. Its defensive capabilities were enhanced by a deep moat that encircled the castle, making it difficult for attackers to breach its walls. King John's Castle served as a symbol of the king's authority and power in the region, projecting a strong image of royal control.

In 1215 it was from either Odiham or Windsor that King John rode out to Runnymede, where he met the barons and attached his seal to Magna Carta.

During its early years, the castle witnessed several historical events. One notable incident occurred in 1216, when King John died nearby at the Bishop of Winchester's Manor. His death marked a turning point in English history and led to the ascension of his nine-year-old son, Henry III, to the throne.

Later that year, and after a two-week siege during the First Barons' War in 1216, Odiham Castle was captured by the French, Boooooooooo! The garrison of just 13 surrendered on 9 July 1216. At some point over the next nine years the keep was renovated, possibly to remedy the damage done to it by the French forces.

In 1238 Simon de Montfort married King John's daughter Eleanor just two years after she had been granted Odiham by her brother, King Henry III. In the following year a kitchen was added on a bridge over the inner moat and a new hall was added on the outside of the keep. During the same period a second building was constructed over the moat, this time on the south eastern side of the keep, to provide extra living space.

In 1263 De Montfort rebelled against King Henry and died at the Battle of Evesham in 1265; Eleanor was exiled. Odiham Castle was again retained by the British Crown. Yaaayy !

In the following centuries, King John's Castle underwent various modifications and additions. It served as a royal residence for several monarchs, including Henry III and Edward I. The castle played a significant role during the conflicts of the 13th and 14th centuries, such as the Baron's Wars and the Hundred Years' War, as it guarded the southern borders of the kingdom and provided a stronghold for the monarchy.
Over time, the castle's strategic importance diminished, and it gradually fell into disrepair.

By the 17th century, King John's Castle was largely abandoned and left to decay. Some parts of the castle were dismantled, and its stones were used for other construction projects in the area.
The castle's location near the Basingstoke Canal and the River Whitewater also offers a picturesque backdrop for visitors. The tranquil waters and surrounding countryside create a serene atmosphere, contrasting with the castle's imposing architecture and turbulent past.

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