 The castle is unusual in not being
built on the site of a previous fortification. It was built in the 14th century by
Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, the most powerful baron in the reign of Edward II. The earl and the King constantly clashed,
particularly over the favouritism shown by the King to Piers Gaveston. Lancaster was
responsible for having Gaveston captured and executed at Warwick. The Scots took
advantage of the turmoil that followed Gaveston's murder and made several raids in
Northern England. As a result the earl began work on his castle as a stronghold
against the Scots and also as protection against Edward II's anger.
The castle was built on a grand scale,
providing plenty of space to harbour local people and their livestock in the event of a
Scottish raid. Thick walls surrounded the site and the steep cliffs and sea provided
protection from attack on two sides. The impressive three-storey gatehouse was built
between 1313 and 1325 using the finest materials.
A second gatehouse was added 60 years later
by the powerful John Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The third son of Edward III, the duke
was involved in negotiations with the Scots. He took the opportunity to strengthen
his fortress and provide more accommodation for his entourage.
During the Wars of the Roses the castle was
besieged by Yorkists. However in the Civil War the castle played little part as it
was unable to withstand artillery bombardment.
Today the ruins of
the great fortress are stranded on a hill top only accessible
by foot.
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Dunstanburgh
Castle
