This Castle Mound (Motte) is located between Castle View and Castle Gardens, and is all that remains of Leicester's first castle. Built on the orders of William the Conqueror in c.1068. The first keeper of the castle was Hugh de Grentesmesnil, a Norman nobleman from France.
The Motte (mound) was originally 30-40 feet high, topped with a timber tower.
No buildings survive, and the motte was lowered in the late 19th century to form a bowling green.
The Church of St Mary de Castro is Grade I listed and dates its founding to 1107. The spire was demolished after 6-metre long cracks were found.
SK5804 : Church of St Mary de Castro viewed from the Castle Motte, same view without the snow.