PECKFORTON CASTLE

Cheshire

Standing on a rocky outcrop facing the other rocky outcrop crowned with Beeston Castle, this magnificent building gives the impression of being every bit as genuine as its ruined compatriate across the valley.

Appearances, however, can be deceptive.  Peckforton Castle was built in 1844 by the architect Anthony Salvin for Lord Tollemache at the huge cost of £60,000.  It represents the ultimate in accuracy and romance of the "mock gothick" revival style.  Whilst many Castles of the period simply opted for a few crenellations or an over-the-top gatehouse, Peckforton does the job properly.  It has a moat, a gatehouse, an inner and outer ward, a great hall - even dungeons and wall walks! You could even believe it would be defensible should the need arise as the walls are really rather solidly constructed!

So superb is the reconstruction that several books we've read on Castles think it is a genuine medieval construction and when the BBC were looking for a perfectly preserved late medieval Castle in 1973 to film an episode of "Doctor Who" they didn't travel to Warwick or Saltwood (both some miles closer to London and both quite genuine) but to Peckforton.

The Castle is open to the public during the summer months and a visit combined with Beeston is recommended.

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© 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