Earl Shilton Castle is an 11th century earthwork motte and bailey fortress, founded by the Earl of Leicester. The large flat-topped circular motte, retains part of its ditch and to the south are the remains of a mutilated bailey rampart. This timber castle was dismantled in the late 12th century and the stone gateway defending the motte is a folly. 4 miles south-west is Hinckley Castle and 6 miles north-east is Kirby Muxloe Castle.