In 1284, Robert Burnell obtained a licence from the king to fortify his residence. Work was probably still in progress when Robert died in 1292. The large first-floor windows of the castle suggest, however, that it never had a serious defensive purpose and was instead perhaps designed to impress.
The Burnell family of Acton Burnell held land in Shropshire from the 1180s, though it was a century later that Robert Burnell came to prominence. Entering royal service as a clerk to Henry III’s son Prince Edward, he rose to become Chancellor of England and Bishop of Bath and Wells when the prince acceded to the throne as Edward I in 1272.
The king’s military campaigns in Wales frequently brought him to Shropshire, and he stayed at Acton. His visit in 1283 assumed national significance when he held a parliament, according to tradition, in the tithe barn here. This was supposedly the first at which commoners were represented.
I agree that the castle was probably meant for a family and the estate, and although it had to be strong, the defensive purpose was not as evident as in other fortifications.
But why was the castle not restored as accurately as possible?
Most of our ruins are not restored back to their former state.
Thank you for this, Cherie. I hadn’t heard of the place
I think you might enjoy it
Oh there’s a place called Acton in West London.
I wonder if they’re related…
What is the history of Acton in West London?
Its a lovely place to visit, although I did get a little lost down some of the lanes when deciding to Bridgnorth afterwards
I often get a bit lost when travelling on my own!