More information : (Centred SK 583 042) Leicester Castle stands in a prominent position above the river Soar. It formerly consisted of an inner bailey, now Castle Yard, with an outer bailey to its north and the C14th addition of a second bailey called The Newarke (SK 50 SE 162). The inner bailey could be approached on the east by a timber-framed gatehouse, built 1446-7, or from the Newarke by the Turret Gateway (SK 50 SE 163 ). The original main entrance to the Newarke was the Magazine Gateway (SK 50 SE 164).
The original motte and bailey castle (SK 50 SE 1) was built in timber by Hugh de Grentmesnil to whom William the Conqueror granted Leicester circa 1068. It was apparently rebuilt by Robert Beaumont, Count of Meulan and first Earl of Leicester, following the almost certain damage which it suffered in the rebellion of 1101. Robert `le Bosso' is generally credited with the building of the great hall (SK 50 SE 165) who inherited the castle in 1118. Henry II ordered its demolition in 1174 but how much was cleared is unknown as it is again recorded as being the residence of the Earl of Leicester. Simon de Montfort held it from 1231 until his death in 1265 when it passed to Edmund Crouchback who improved the structure. John of Gaunt died there in 1399 and after his son became Henry IV it was only used occasionally for Parliaments; the `Parliament of Bats ' was assembled there in 1426. Richard III seems to have been the last occupant in 1483 and by Charles I's time, apart from the great hall, the rest was `utterly ruynous, useless and irreparable' (1-3).
Leicester Castle. Scheduling amended. (4) |