Donnington Castle

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The estate of Donnington has been in the possession of the Abberbury family since 1287, when they acquired it through inheritance. In 1386, Sir Richard Abberbury was granted a royal charter by King Richard II to crenellate and fortify his castle at Donyngton, Berks. This decision was not unexpected, given that Sir Richard had fought alongside King Edward the Black Prince in battles such as Crécy and Poitiers. The original structure of Donnington Castle consisted of a curtain wall with four round corner towers and two square wall towers, along with a substantial gatehouse constructed around a central courtyard. This design was typical of fortified residences during that period. Accommodations within the castle were provided in the towers or in buildings situated adjacent to the walls of the courtyard. The courtyard's buildings likely consisted of timber framing and possibly included a hall, a kitchen, and lodgings for guests. In the early 15th century, Donnington Castle was owned by Thomas Chaucer, son of renowned poet Geoffrey Chaucer. Later, it passed into the hands of the Crown. Notable monarchs who stayed at Donnington include Henry VIII in 1539 and Elizabeth I in 1568.