Middleham Castle

Scheduled area

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History & significance

Middleham Castle is a medieval fortress located in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire (not Durham), founded in the late eleventh century by Robert Penrose following the Norman Conquest. The castle is dominated by a substantial stone keep, constructed in the twelfth century, which represents one of the finest examples of Norman military architecture in northern England. The site was developed further with the addition of curtain walls and domestic structures during the medieval period, and notably served as a residence of the royal house during the fifteenth century, particularly under Richard III before his accession to the throne. The remains, now in the care of English Heritage, retain significant archaeological and architectural value as evidence of medieval castle development and domestic life in the North of England.

Middleham Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1002330. View the official record →

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