Earlier Houses: There was a 3rd century Roman fort called Anderitum on the site, elements of which were incorporated into the current castle.

House & Family History: William the Conqueror launched his invasion of England by landing at Pevensey Bay on September 28, 1066. Using the substantial remains of the Roman fort he found on the site, the conqueror created his first fortress in England here. So important was the fort to William that it's likely he had it depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry, where it's called Hestengaceastra. Pevensey Castle is noted for never having been successfully stormed. The castle was occupied until the 16th century, after which it fell into a slow decay. In 1925 the site was acquired by the British government and it has remained in state ownership ever since. During World War II Pevensey's exposed shoreline and flat hinterland made it a probable target area for a German invasion; thus, between 1940 and 1945, the castle was occupied by military troops for the first time in over 400 years. It was during this time that machine gun posts (still there today) were built into the Roman and medieval walls.

House Listed: Scheduled Ancient Monument

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: Gilbert I de l'Aigle, 12th century. Gilbert Fitz Gilbert de Clare, 1st Earl of Pembroke, 12th century. Peter of Savoy, Earl of Richmond, 13th century. Queen Eleanor of Provence, wife of Henry III, 13th century. Queen Isabella of France, wife of Edward II, 14th century. Queen Philippa of Hainault, wife of Edward III, 14th century.

Current Ownership Type: English Heritage

Primary Current Ownership Use: Visitor Attraction

House Open to Public: Yes

Phone: 01323-762-604

Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/

Historic Houses Member: No