The bailey

In the Middle Ages the Normans built castles to protect themselves from attack. The first castles had to be built quickly and often consisted of a wooden tower, or keep, erected on a mound, or motte, of earth. The keep was located within a safe, enclosed area, or bailey, where animals were withdrawn at dusk, protected by a fence and ditch, or moat.

At Thistledown there will be two large, circular baileys surrounded by a shallow ditch and grassy bank walls creating a protected, more sheltered area inside. It is intended that this area will be used to exhibit appropriate smaller scale artwork and sculptures from local artists, according to changing seasons and themes. The artwork will be displayed within herb and sensory gardens, including seating, providing a secluded and tranquil area in which to admire the planting and sculptures.