Acton Burnell Castle

Acton Burnell Castle, located near Shrewsbury in Shropshire, England, is a fascinating historic site with a rich medieval heritage. Despite its name, Acton Burnell Castle is more accurately described as a fortified manor house rather than a true castle. The site offers visitors a glimpse into the life of a medieval nobleman and the unique architecture of the late 13th century.

The manor house was built between 1284 and 1287 by Robert Burnell, who was the Bishop of Bath and Wells and the Lord Chancellor to King Edward I. Robert Burnell was a powerful and influential figure in the English court, and his manor at Acton Burnell reflected his high status. The house was designed not only as a residence but also as a symbol of Burnell’s wealth and power.

Architecturally, Acton Burnell Castle is a fine example of a fortified manor house. The building is constructed from local red sandstone, giving it a distinctive appearance. The manor was designed with both comfort and defense in mind, featuring large windows, a great hall, and domestic chambers, while also being surrounded by a curtain wall with towers at each corner. Although the defensive features were not as robust as those of a true castle, they provided a measure of protection and conveyed the owner’s status.

One of the most significant events associated with Acton Burnell Castle is the Parliament of Acton Burnell, which took place in 1283. This was a meeting of Parliament convened by King Edward I, and it is particularly notable because it marked the first time that a statute was passed (the Statute of Acton Burnell) to regulate the debts of merchants. This statute laid the groundwork for future commercial law in England.