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ELSDON CASTLES

Northumberland

Elsdon Castle, Northumberland

There are two Castles at Elsdon, the one pictured above, and a pele tower dating from the late 14th/early 15th century built by the de Umfravilles.

The motte and bailey Castle, probably the best example of its kind this far North, dates from as early as 1080 - making it one of Northumberland's earliest - and was probably built by Robert de Umfraville I and abandoned by his son in favour of Prudhoe Castle.

The 1770s excavations revealed the remains of "strong masonry and two Roman inscriptions". These stones were still in evidence in 1857 but now nothing is left but the earthworks.

The de Umfravilles were great survivors and the pele tower bears the coats of arms of the Percys, Howards and Lucys - a real example of "hedging your bets"!

The motte is on private land but visible from all around; the pele tower is private but can be seen clearly from outside.

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2024

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