Medieval manor, Purleigh Manor, Purleigh (EHER 45836)

A medieval manor belonging to Hugh de Montfort. The earthwork remains of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle survive (EHER 7711). After several other owners, it was purchased by James Bonnell in 1743 and remained in the hands of his descendants until the early 20th century.

The manor of Purleigh was held in demesne by the chief lords on the honour of Haughley until the honour was escheated to the King in 1163 on the downfall of Henry de Essex. It was granted away by the king in 1227 and it is thought that it was the chief manor of Hugh de Montfort's Essex estates. The earthwork remains of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle survive (EHER 7711). Granted to John de Grey in 1233 it stayed in the Grey family until 1507 when it was sold to Hugh Dennys, whose descendants retained possession until 1743. The manor was then purchased by James Bonnell and remained in the hands of his descendants until the early 20th century. <1>