Walden Castle Walden Castle Walden Castle was a medieval castle in Essex, England, built during the Anarchy of the 12th century. Only the ruined core of the structure remains today. Walden Castle was built in the town of Saffron Walden in Essex at the start of the civil war known as the Anarchy by Geoffrey de Mandeville, with much of the work occurring between 1141 and 1143. It was one of several castles built by de Mandeville to reinforce his power across the region. The castle stood on a natural high point within the town () and had a square Norman keep
Saffron Walden by the Youth Hostel Association from 1947 to 2010. It is now used for functions. "Pevsner" described it as: "without doubt, the best medieval house of Saffron Walden". Other notable early buildings are in Bridge Street, Castle Street and the side streets off the High Street. The High Street contains some late-Georgian and Victorian buildings. Bridge End Gardens, seven interlinked gardens – including a maze, rose garden and walled garden – was originally laid out by the Gibson family. They have been restored with help from the Heritage Lottery Fund and volunteers. St Mary the Virgin, Saffron Walden is the