Middleham Castle

Middleham Castle is a Norman fortress ruin in Wensleydale with a massive central keep surrounded by outer walls that enclose multiple levels of chambers. The stonework still reveals the layout of different areas, from living quarters to defensive walkways.

The fortress was founded in 1190 by Robert Fitzrandolph and later became a residence for Richard III during his youth before he became king. The stronghold changed hands among powerful families over the centuries and remained important to northern military history for generations.

The fortress served for centuries as a seat of power for northern English noble families who ruled the Wensleydale region from within its walls. Visitors can still see the spaces where these families lived and governed, particularly in the chambers of the central keep.

The site is accessible on foot and offers open areas to explore along with some sections you can enter to see the interior structure. Visitors should wear weather-appropriate clothing since many areas are exposed and the ground is uneven in places.

The remains contain traces of a mill and a bread oven, showing how people produced flour and bread within this fortress on a daily basis. These practical installations give visitors insight into the everyday supply operations needed to sustain life behind the walls.

Location: Middleham

Inception: 1190

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

GPS coordinates: 54.28404,-1.80685

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:00