Ongar Castle
Historical Site Medieval castle ruins near Ongar in Essex
Motte‑and‑bailey castle remains in Chipping Ongar, Essex; visitors explore earthworks, local history and short walks through the town’s historic streets.
Ongar Castle is a medieval motte-and-bailey site in Chipping Ongar, Essex, England, where earthwork remains and traces of masonry survive. The site is a small historic monument rather than a large standing castle.
The castle was constructed in the Norman and medieval period and fell into disuse and ruin in later centuries; what survives today is primarily the raised motte, surrounding bailey earthworks and fragments of masonry. It is protected as a historic site.
Historically the castle served as a local fortified residence and administrative centre during the Middle Ages before decay and dismantling removed most above-ground structures.
The site lies in the town of Chipping Ongar in Essex, roughly 35 km northeast of central London, and is accessible from the town’s roads and footpaths.
- Surviving features: Remains consist mainly of earthworks - a motte and bailey layout - visible from the surrounding public areas in Chipping Ongar.
How to Get to Ongar Castle #
Ongar Castle is located near Chipping Ongar in Essex and is reachable by local roads from the M25 and A414. The nearest rail stations are Epping and Brentwood with local buses and a short taxi or walk to the site.
Tips for Visiting Ongar Castle #
- Wear good footwear-the motte can be steep and slippery after rain.
- Visit with a county heritage leaflet-the local historical society has small publications that flesh out the site's story.
- Respect that much of the site lies on private land; use public footpaths and observe signage.
Best Time to Visit Ongar Castle #
Most visitors choose late spring through early autumn for easier access to ruins and clearer paths.
Weather & Climate near Ongar Castle #
Ongar Castle's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 22°C. Moderate rainfall (597 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. The wettest month with 58 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. The wettest month with 58 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with 58 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
