RICHMOND CASTLE

North Riding of Yorkshire

One of England's most spectacular ruins, Richmond Castle stands in the beautiful Swaldale town of the same name.  The Castle was begun by Alan 'the Red' soon after the Normans arrived and became the administrative centre for "Richmondshire".  Virtually all of the Castle was built by Alan 'the Red' before 1089 making it one of the earliest stone Castles and one of the least adulterated by later alterations.  The only major change being the removal of the original Gatehouse which was replaced by the keep by Conan the Little, Duke of Brittany in the early 12th century.

The Castle passed to the Dukes of Brittany who lost and regained it at various stages over the next 300 years as their allegiances wavered between England and France.  Eventually they lost the Castle for good in 1384 at the height of the Hundred Years War.  The Castle then passed from the Nevilles to the Dukes of Bedford, the Tudors and eventually Richard III (whilst still Richard of Gloucester, being the owner too of nearby Middleham Castle which he preferred).

None of these owners were particularly enamoured of Richmond and it fell into disuse and then ruin.  It is ironic that this wonderful Castle never stood the test of a siege, but perhaps that is why it is in such good condition.

The Castle is owned by English Heritage.

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
© Web Design and Layout - Andrew J. Müller
2001