HELMSLEY CASTLE

North Riding of Yorkshire

Helmsley Castle, North Riding of Yorkshire

This quite extensive Castle was built by Robert de Roos between 1186 and 1227, the keep having an unusual D-shaped plan.  A gatehouse and barbican were built by his son, William. Only the keep, barbican and part of the west range now stand above foundation level.

The de Roos family owned the Castle right up until 1508.  Not much more than 100 years later the Castle was under siege by Parliament during the Civil War.  After three months of siege the garrison surrendered in 1644 to Sir Thomas Fairfax and the Castle was very severely slighted; including half the keep being completely removed (see also Scarborough Castle).

It is quite a shame that the Castle was so badly damaged as what remains today is still impressive and worth visiting.

The Castle is owned by English Heritage.

Back to Castles of the North Riding

Back to Castles of the North Riding

© Text copyright - Raving Loony Productions, Andrew J. Müller and Roy Barton
© Photos and Artwork - Andrew J. Müller and Roy Barton
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2001

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