Bedford Castle is little more than an unrecognizable mound today, situated behind Bedford Museum in Castle Street. The castle was first built as a motte in the 11th century, and later a shell keep was added, to be followed by a round tower with curtain walls. The castle acted as an important administrative centre, and several Sherrifs of Buckinghamshire - yes, Bucks, not Beds - used it as their official seat.
The castle's moment in the spotlight of history came in 1224 when forces acting on behalf of the underage Henry III besieged the castle, which was held by Fawkes de Breauté. The young king's men triumphed; an event which did much to solidify Henry's tenuous grasp on the throne. The castle was destroyed in the siege and the site was given over to other purposes.
