 Middleham Castle
The much rebuilt and remodeled Middelham Castle seen today, was the second one to
be built in the small market town of Middleham, the first being built
in the mid 11th century on a site just south west of the
current castle, which was begun in the late 12th century.
With frequent changes of ownership, and a very chequered history, Middleham
Castle underwent many periods of reconstruction and conversion right
into the 16th century, although no records survive documenting
the specific dates and alterations made.
Originally, entry was gained via an eastern gatehouse across a wooden bridge, or possibly
even a drawbridge over a moat (now dry). However, the present entrance
to Middleham Castle is through a three-storey, northern gatehouse with
a passageway at ground level. Confronted by such an elaborate structure,
with huge wooden gates and, at one time, a portcullis, it must have represented
a splendid first impression of wealth and power.
Despite its ruinous state, the central Keep, towering to a height of some 66ft (20m), is still quite
imposing. It is no longer possible to clamber up the original stone
staircase as this was destroyed, but after climbing the modern steps
in the south east corner of the Keep, marvellous views of the surrounding
countryside can be appreciated from the battlements. Also visible from
this vantage point is the site of the first motte-and-bailey castle,
abandoned in the 12th century when the new one was built.
The Keep had two wells and two circular stone pits, possibly for storing
live fish, and it appears that much of the ground floor was used as
a kitchen area. The Keep, although not the tallest in England, was extremely
large in area and provided exceptional living quarters along with the
necessary security. The Great Hall was the heart of Middleham Castle, where entertaining and feasting took
place regularly and, on other occasions, to settle disputes when it was
utilised as the local courtroom. However, those wishing to gain access
would have to pass through several defence barriers, including three heavily
guarded gates, and an ante-room, before entry to the Hall was permitted.
Many 'royals' have been associated with Middleham Castle: it was the childhood home of Richard
III, and his only son, Edward, was borne at Middleham Castle; Henry IV stayed
there in 1410, enjoying the palatial surroundings and high quality accommodation
it afforded; and several great Lords also resided there at various times.
As for its darker side, Middleham Castle was used as a base during the Wars of the
Roses, as well as during other skirmishes, and many prisoners were brought
there for execution. It was a centre of defense, power and politics. |
