1066 and all this

Berkhamsted Living Magazine Berkhamsted Castle at the heart of anniversaries

Berkhamsted took its place at the centre of 1066 anniversary events this year.

William the Conqueror returned to Berkhamsted Castle, almost exactly 950 years after his first visit. In 1066, probably in early December, William received the surrender of the native Saxons here. On 14 October, the anniversary of Hastings, a bronze bust of the Conqueror was unveiled.

The bust was the private initiative of local businessman Jonathan Culverhouse. It was executed by Peter Walker (above), artist in residence at Lichfield Cathedral. Professor David Bates of the University of East Anglia gave a short and moving speech, called for a moment’s silent reflection and unveiled the bust in the castle built originally by Robert of Mortain, the Conqueror’s half-brother.