More information : (SU 80748470) Bolebec's Castle (supposed site of). (1)
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. (2-4)
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). (5)
|