Bramber Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey castle formerly the caput of the large feudal barony of Bramber long held by the Braose family. William De Braose built the castle around 1070. Most of the surviving masonry dates from this time. Except for a period of confiscation during the reign of King John (1199–1216), Bramber Castle remained in the ownership of the de Braose family until the male line died out in 1326.

 

The castle is supposedly haunted by the tragic sight of three children - two girls and a boy in a pitiful state. It is claimed that they are the children of William de Braose. They were taken under the orders of King John for Williams involvement in the events leading to the sealing of the Magna Carta. The children were starved to death at Windsor Castle.

 

Also reported is the ghost of Maude of Ditchling, who has been heard "wailing amongst the ruins".