Castle Rising Castle, built in 1140 is amongst the finest surviving examples of 12th Century castles in England. In its time it has served as a hunting lodge, royal residence, and for a brief time in the 18th century even housed a mental patient! The Keep which has some of the largest ramparts in Britain being 120 feet from top to bottom in places, is set in 12 acres of grounds, which are lovely for picnics. The village of Castle Rising is beautifully preserved and features a fine Norman church and a 17th century Almshouse.