In a marvellous setting overlooking the River Rother, this archetypal medieval castle surrounded by a moat nestles in a hollow in the hillside. Bodiam Castle was built from 1385 to 1388 to prevent the French from pillaging their way upriver (the river could be navigated at the time) and progressing inland. Its large guardroom, massive wall and enormous, 18m-high turrets at each corner have been preserved.