Barnard Castle

The castle was built on fine site overlooking the River Tees.

It was established as a small enclosure in the late 11th century and grew to site of over 6 acres, most of which was protected by steep cliffs. The castle takes its name from its builder, Barnard Baliol.

The outer ward and gatehouse divide the castle from the town.

The inner ward has a 13th century Round Tower built of red sandstone. This tower has an unusual forebuilding added for extra defence. Much of the domestic range was rebuilt, with the defences, in the 14th century.

The early history of the castle was marked by its disputed ownership.

After a successful siege by Alexander II, King of Scotland the castle came under Scottish ownership. This was disputed by the Prince- Bishops of Durham and in 1296, when King John of Scotland was overthrown, the Prince-Bishops seized the castle.

However, four years later the castle was given by Edward I to the Earl of Warwick.

The castle later came under the ownership of Richard III whose emblem, a white boar, came be seen carved into a window.