Richmond Castle

Richmond castle occupies a triangular site on cliffs commanding a powerful position over the River Swale.

The castle is protected on one side by steep cliffs and on the other two by thick walls. Because of its position surrounded by high moors the castle was virtually cut off from any influence over English history.

The site was owned originally by the Saxon Edwin, Earl of Mercia.

The first Norman holder was Alan the Red of Brittany, a relation of the Duke of Brittany. Work on the curtain walling together with rectangular tower was begun within 20 years of the Conquest.

Scolland's Hall, a two-storey building over looking the river was built in 1075 and served as a great tower until a 12th century keep was built to the north.

Over the next 300 years the family sided with the French during any wars and consequently the castle would be forfeit to the Crown. This was always a temporary measure as the monarch could not afford to make such wealthy enemies.

In 1341, on the death of John III, Duke of Brittany the castle became linked to the throne of England.

John of Gaunt, son of Edward III became Earl of Richmond and held the castle for 30 years. The castle reverted to the Duke of Brittany for another 25 years until it finally passed to Henry VI's half brother Edmond Tudor.

Thereafter it was closely linked to the monarchy and when the Earl of Richmond became King Henry VII the Honour was totally absorbed by the Crown.

During the same reign Richmond lent its older title to the new royal palace on the Thames.

Being isolated the castle took no part in the War of the Roses or the Civil War and in the mid-16th century it was left to decay.