The New Murrey and Blue blog

I’ve always thought that moats were entirely for defence, but it seems no, there are other reasons as well, as you’ll read if you go here: 9 Myths About Medieval Moats and the Truth Behind Them | Ancient Origins (ancient-origins.net)

Moats were also for showing off. The deeper and wider the moat, the more influential the castle’s occupant. The more decorative the moat, the more fashionable and important the owner. And moats were a psychological barrier for any attacker. Nor were they always filled with water – sharp rocks were effective too. The list of reasons goes on and on and debunks the old crocodiles-in-the-moat story on the way.

All I do know is that there is something absolutely fascinating and beautiful about a castle reflected in its moat.

OK, I admit that the above link concerns moats all over the world, and I have only included illustrations from England and Wales, but you can find a list of the top ten moats in the world here.