Rye House Gatehouse

Rye House Gatehouse is a striking Grade I listed building and scheduled monument located on the east bank of the River Lee near Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire. It forms part of the surviving remains of a late medieval moated castle complex, originally licensed for construction in 1440 by Andrew Ogard.

The site includes a well-preserved medieval moat enclosing an area approximately 90 by 75 metres. The water-filled ditch surrounding the island is about 6 metres wide, fed by a broad leat from the River Lee and a smaller leat entering from the north. Access to the island is provided by a southern causeway, flanked by two unusual twisted brick pillars. These pillars are not original gateposts but are re-erected chimneys from the late medieval period and are included in the scheduled monument.

The most prominent feature on the site is the red brick gatehouse built in the 16th century. Positioned on the east side of the moated island, it would originally have been approached by a bridge—different to the modern crossing now in place. The gatehouse is notable for its decorative cut brickwork, castellated parapets, and distinctive twisted chimneys, reflecting the transition from medieval fortress to Tudor domestic architecture.

Also visible on the southern side of the island are two fragments of masonry wall, which are the only remaining parts of the main castle structure. Though the full outline of the castle has been partially marked out in modern brick, no significant archaeological excavation has been carried out on the site. These remnants, along with the moat and gatehouse, are all protected as part of the scheduled monument.

Rye House Gatehouse stands as a rare and evocative example of a fortified late medieval residence and offers insight into the architecture and defensive planning of the period. Its location by the river and the surrounding water features give it a distinctive and atmospheric setting.

Created: 2  May  2025  Edited: 2  May  2025