Although you might not think it today, the mount and surrounding lands are the remnant of an early medieval wooden motte and bailey castle built by Sweyn, Sheriff of Essex. With the castle long gone, the area is now an urban wildlife haven and green lung in the heart of Rayleigh town centre, offering sweeping views across the Crouch Valley. In the summer, the mount provides a perfect backdrop for dramatic open-air theatre productions. Make the most of your day by also visiting with the adjacent sensory garden and windmill, home to fascinating historical exhibitions (please note the windmill is not run by the National Trust).
A place of historic importance but nothing of the actual Castle remains, the site is more of a nature reserve but still a nice place to go for some peace. To climb to the top you have to quite physically fit.
Short walk up to the Mount. Has beauiful views bad sadly because of the overgrown shrubs you cannot see much but still there is some good views. Windmill at the bottom but only open saturdays. There is Museum that is a must visit too and only 5 mins away next to Pizza express on the high street. We also found halal food from Sushi Bento and Riva (turkish cuisine) both on the high street.
Some lovely wildflowers to spot. Helpful signs to help navigate. Didn't know was only Essex castle recorded in Domesday book, all that effort to build and wasn't attacked once. So I guess it worked
Great spot for a relaxed walk with a historical background. Well maintained by the groundskeeper with lots of wild flowers.
A pleasant little slip through up to the town. The pond need a bit more Walter. I loved the weave fencing. And the view from the top
A beautiful and peaceful place hidden away in the heart of the town. Hard to believe it's just off the High Street. So fun of wildlife and with great views out over Sweyne Park.
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Good for kids
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A place of historic importance but nothing of the actual Castle remains, the site is more of a nature reserve but still a nice place to go for some peace. To climb to the top you have to quite physically fit.
Short walk up to the Mount. Has beauiful views bad sadly because of the overgrown shrubs you cannot see much but still there is some good views. Windmill at the bottom but only open saturdays. There is Museum that is a must visit too and only 5 mins away next to Pizza express on the high street. We also found halal food from Sushi Bento and Riva (turkish cuisine) both on the high street.
Some lovely wildflowers to spot. Helpful signs to help navigate. Didn't know was only Essex castle recorded in Domesday book, all that effort to build and wasn't attacked once. So I guess it worked
Great spot for a relaxed walk with a historical background. Well maintained by the groundskeeper with lots of wild flowers.
A pleasant little slip through up to the town. The pond need a bit more Walter. I loved the weave fencing. And the view from the top
A beautiful and peaceful place hidden away in the heart of the town. Hard to believe it's just off the High Street. So fun of wildlife and with great views out over Sweyne Park.
