Castle William The Conqueror

Located on a rocky spur once surrounded by marshes, the castle is set on an ideal natural defensive site which dominates the city.
Its two square keeps are rare examples of medieval architecture combining both a military and residential function. They are part of the great group of Anglo-Norman “palace-keeps” built by William the Conqueror and his successors after the 1066 conquest of England.
Modified little during the centuries which followed its construction, the castle was abandoned from the beginning of the 17th century. Threatened to be destroyed and in a state of ruin, the edifice was listed in 1840 as a National Heritage building. Ambitious restoration campaigns arose, and it is in 1997, after long years of rehabilitation, that the keeps open their doors to the public.
Magnificently restored, this place of English and French history, that cannot be ignored, imposes itself as a major element in the local tourist scene. It is inscribed, with the monuments of Caen and Bayeux, among the sites of the “William the Conqueror” historical area.
The Castle can be visited via the non-stop audiovisual tour within the keeps: lighting effects, music, images projection and accounts of William’s life, his descendants’, feudal society, medieval warfare, courtly love...

Useful informations

Opening hours :
From February to December (except on Christmas Day) open daily from 10 a.m to 6 p.m (7 p.m in July & August). Last ticket sold one hour before closing time.
Usual closing month : January Due to restoration works

Admission rates
ADULTS : 7 €
STUDENTS : 5,50 €
CHILDREN (from 6 to 16) : 3 € (free under 6 years old)
Special offer: FAMILY PASS. Single rate : 17€. For two paying adults and a child, the other children between 6 and 16 are free.
Group rates (reservation required)
ADULTS : 4,50 €, CHILDREN : 2 €
STUDENT over 16 : 3,50 €