Libraries and leisure

Archaeology, Sites to See

Toothill Motte and Bailey Castle

Toot Hill motte and bailey was built early in the 12th century. It is situated a few miles to the north of the Icknield Way and may have been built to control this important routeway. The large oval motte is surrounded by a ditch, and measures 90m x 60m, and the adjacent bailey, a large ditched enclosure located in an area now known as ‘The Bury’, contains the 12th century parish church of St Mary. The combination of castle and church on the same site shows the controlling influence of the local lord. It is possible that the castle had a second bailey, a very rare feature, which extended to the west, and therefore now encloses ‘The Motte and Bailey’ Public House. Medieval and later settlement was centred on ‘The Bury’, and the area also contains earthworks which are the remains of these buildings; the latest survived until early this century.

From Hitchin Road, Pirton, turn right into Crab Tree Lane, and then right into Bury End. From here a footpath crosses the site. Grid reference TL 148 316.

Map showing Toothill Motte and Bailey Castle