Its structure, details and situation in an artificial watery landscape indicate that display was an important aspect of the castle's design as well as defence. It was the home of the Dalyngrigge family and the centre of the manor of Bodiam.
its inspiration to castles in France where the owner campaigned successfully as a soldier for the Earl of Arundel in 1359 near Paris, for the Duke of Lancaster in 1373 at Bordeaux and for Lord Despenser in 1374 at naval engagements.
