Monument record 0173403000 - Danesfield Camp

(SU 80748470) Bolebec's Castle (supposed site of) (B35)

The above site is recorded by Langley (a) "as the probable site of such a castle as that of the Bolbecs." The latter he places within the fort called Danes' Ditches at Danesfield (SU 88 SW 15). In 1771 Hearne describes it as the ruins of a strong building known locally at Bullbank's Castle which he supposed to be the site of the original manor of Hugh de Bolebec. It apparently corresponds with a messuage called Bulbank in 1612 and Bulbec Manor in 1539 which was a subdivision of Medenham Manor held in 1086 by Hugh de Bolebec. Plaisted believes that it lay within the eastern rampart of Danes' Ditches (B6, B26, B36).

No trace of Bolebec's Castle; its supposed site is now under pasture, and there is considerable doubt as to its former existence. Authy's 1-4 appear to have derived their information directly or indirectly from Hearne's discription in 1771 of a strong but ruinous building known locally as "Bullbank's Castle", but elsewhere described as "old Manor House". Hence the term Bullbank's Castle" may merely indicate ruins with a superficial resemblance to a castle in the 18th century. No further documentary evidence was found to verify the site of a castle.

Bolebec Castle at Whitchurch is a ringwork with later stone walls (See SP 72 SE 3) (B38).


NRHE Insert 1997, Update 1999 and 2001 (B39)

[May be referencing monument 0116801000. Bolebec's Castle, Medmenham Hillfort]