Odiham Castle was originally a 13th century stone fortified hunting lodge, founded by King John. Built in 1207, a square inner platform encased by a moat, supported a rampart and the 'domus regis' or king's house. The siege and capture of the castle in 1216, by Prince Louis of France, led to the destruction of most of the early buildings. After its recapture in 1217, a great three storey octagonal keep, encased by a circular moat was constructed. Built of flint walls with stone dressings, it stands in the center of the inner ward, which was also defended by a 14th century palisade and ditch. By the 15th century, the inner moat had been in-filled and the castle in use as a hunting lodge again. To the south-east, is a rectangular outer ward, encased by a moat but sadly its been bisected by the canal. 6 miles west is Olivers Battery and 9 miles south-east is Powderham Castle.