Visitors to Castle Acre are entranced by the special atmosphere of this medieval walled town, which lies within the outer bailey of an 11th century castle.

Castle Acre takes its name from the castle built in the 12th Century by the Normans. Although now only its walls and ramparts remain, it attracts visitors all year round and offers splendid views of the surrounding Norfolk countryside. The castle is immediately behind the Old Red Lion, a minute’s walk from the back gate.

Castle Acre’s history can be traced back to before the 10th Century. An ancient gateway arch, called the Bailey Gate, was the north gateway to the medieval town.

In addition to the Castle and the Bailey Gate, visitors should see the beautifully maintained Castle Acre Priory, whose walled herb garden and the prior’s lodging give an insight into the life of this once powerful priory. The priory is an easy 10 minute walk from the Old Red Lion.

The combined village shop and post office is open daily from 6am (8am on Sundays). The Willow Tea Rooms, and two traditional village pubs, the Ostrich Inn and the Albert Victor, are all within a 5 minutes’ stroll from the Old Red Lion.