Peveril Castle

Peveril Castle is a medieval fortress perched on a steep limestone crag high above Castleton village, with stone ruins spread across the hilltop. The remains include the keep, curtain walls, and defensive structures that once enclosed the inner and outer wards of the fortification.

The castle was built in the 11th century following the Norman conquest and appears in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a valuable property. Over the following centuries it remained an important stronghold until it fell into disuse after the medieval period and gradually crumbled.

The ruined stronghold once served as the administrative heart of the Royal Forest of the Peak, where officials managed hunting rights and collected taxes from surrounding communities. Walking through the remains, visitors get a sense of how this place controlled the region's resources and enforced authority over the valley below.

The path up to the ruins climbs steeply from the village and requires sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness. Once at the top, visitors find open ruins they can explore freely, and the site offers wide views across the surrounding countryside on clear days.

Within the keep stands a remarkably preserved medieval toilet, a garderobe with a chute that drops down the inside of the stone walls. This practical feature reveals how those living here managed daily necessities within the fortress, offering a glimpse into routines often overlooked when we think of castle life.

Location: Castleton

Inception: 1080

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/peveril-castle

GPS coordinates: 53.34020,-1.77720

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:23