Dacre Castle, Medieval tower house in Dacre, England
Dacre Castle is a medieval tower house in northwestern England, surrounded on three sides by a moat. The robust sandstone structure has four corner turrets with crenellations and rises prominently from the surrounding landscape.
A noblewoman named Margaret Multon commissioned the building around 1350 as a fortified residence when the Scottish border region was frequently under threat. The structure maintained its defensive purpose for several centuries before being adapted for other uses.
The name comes from Old English and refers to the area near a stream. Visitors can see today how the courtyard is enclosed by tall walls, creating an impression of medieval strength and defense.
The castle is privately owned and located about 4 miles southwest of Penrith in Cumbria. Access is limited, so it is advisable to check ahead for visiting possibilities.
In the 19th century the former fortress was used as a farmhouse by the Hassell family and lost its original military function. This transformation shows how such castles took on completely different lives during times of peace.
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