Wingfield

Introduction

A village with many fine buildings, recorded in Domesday as "Wineberga". The castle was erected in 1384 after the Peasants Revolt. It also marked the arrival of the de la Pole family (Earls and later Dukes of Suffolk). Wingfield College also dates from the 14th century and is linked to the family. The Great Hall now houses a collection of prints and textiles and hosts concerts (open weekends and bank holidays). Michael, First Earl of Suffolk in 1385, had no sooner built the castle, when he was forced to flee to Paris. The second Earl died of fever in Harfleur whilst his eldest son was killed at Agincourt. William, fourth Earl and first Duke of Suffolk, led the English against Joan of Arc, captured Margaret of Anjou at Orleans and then married her to Henry VI. Later appointed Chamberlain and Admiral of England he was then largely responsible for the loss of most of the crown's land in France during a disastrous 3 year period, subsequently imprisoned in the Tower of London and banished for 5 years he was mysteriously killed en-route to Calais and later buried in the village.

Gallery