Castle Yard

Crumbling earthworks and scattered stones mark what remains of a medieval fortification just outside Saxmundham. Castle Yard isn't much to look at these days - you'll need a proper imagination to picture the timber and stone structure that once stood here centuries ago.

History buffs will find enough to poke around for half an hour, though families with restless children might want to combine it with a longer walk through the surrounding Suffolk countryside. The site sits on private land with unclear access arrangements, so it's worth checking locally before making a special trip.

What you're looking at are the earthen banks and ditches that formed the castle's defences, plus some masonry fragments if you know where to look. It's the sort of place that rewards those who've done their homework on medieval fortifications - others might wonder what all the fuss is about.

Perfectly placed for a quick detour if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Carlton Meres or Cliff House. The archaeological remains won't detain you long, but they add a dash of medieval intrigue to a Suffolk camping break. Best visited as part of a broader exploration of the area rather than a destination in its own right.