After the Norman Conquest of England following the Battle of Hastings of 1066, the land the buildings on it, captured from Edward the Elder, were awarded to Walter Douai, who had established himself at the location by 1086.

It was a simple fortification, employing the motte and bailey style of defence.

King Stephen laid siege to the castle and the fortifications were burnt down.

Since then the stonework has all been removed but the motte survives as a prominent mound on the outskirts of the village.

[5] Today the remains of the castle exist on a high mound around sixty meters in a diameter, which is surrounded by a circular, partially buried ditch.