Pontefract Castle

Pontefract Castle is a medieval fortress ruin in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, consisting of stone walls, tower fragments and a four-lobed keep positioned on raised ground. The site spreads across several levels, with the central keep showing an unusual quatrefoil floor plan surrounded by lower wall sections.

The castle was built around 1070 by Ilbert de Lacy following the Norman invasion and grew into one of the most powerful fortresses in northern England. During the English Civil War it fell under siege three times and was later demolished by order of Parliament to prevent its military use.

During the Middle Ages, the fortress served as a prison for high-ranking captives from across Europe, whose names are still recorded in the dungeons today. Visitors can explore the deep cells where kings and nobles were held under harsh conditions.

The grounds open daily until 4:30 PM with free entry and offer paved paths for wheelchair users on the lower level. The information center displays exhibits about the ruin and helps visitors orient themselves during the visit.

The keep with its unusual four-lobed plan counts among the rare examples of medieval architecture in England and finds a parallel only in the geometry of Clifford's Tower in York. This shape was intended to position defenders better and reduce attack points for besiegers.