ROCKINGHAM CASTLE

Northamptonshire

Rockingham is one of the Midlands' most spectacular Castles, and one of the oldest having been founded by William I.  It became an important administrative centre very early on, as it was the site of the Council of Rockingham between William II and Bishop Anselm in 1095.

The Castle's situation on the edge of the Rockingham Forest, which once covered most of Northamptonshire, made it very popular as a base for Royal hunting parties. That great lover of the Hunt, King John, came to Rockingham on every year of his reign, and it was during his time that the Castle reached its fortified peak, the Gatehouse being a very early example of its kind and still the dominating feature.

The Keep has sadly vanished almost entirely. In 1221 the Constable of the Castle, William de Fortibus, rebelled and Hubert de Burgh (the Constable of Dover Castle) laid siege and the young Henry III came along to watch the show.

In 1544 the Castle was sold to Edward Watson who built the house inside the grounds, and the Watsons have lived here almost ever since.  During the Civil War the Castle was repeatedly held by Parliament against Royalist attack.  After Parliament's victory the Castle's defences were largely demolished, although thankfully the Gatehouse remains.

The Castle is open to the public during the summer months.

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2001