More information : SE 4153 9803: Harlsey Castle [NR] (remains of) [NAT]
Moat [NR] (1)
An almost rectangular enclosure of 4 1/2 acres, with a 30ft wide ditch on three sides and terraces for defence on the west. Slight remains exist of an inner enclosure, including three cellars with rubble-vaulted pointed roofs which may be the basement of a later keep. (2)
Castle taken over by Sir James Strangeways in 1423 and probably fell into disuse after the manor was forfeited to the Crown in the 16th century. (3)
The moat, now dry, was obviously originally a continuous feature, but its NW angle has been obliterated by the present farmstead. The terraces outside the ditch on the west side have been much mutilated by tree-planting, but were probably intended for cultivation rather than defence, as this is the least vulnerable side.
The cellars of the castle are in use as farm buildings. See photographs. (For 18th c. farmhouse also known as Harlsey Castle see SE 49 NW 13). Published survey (25") of earthworks revised. (4)
SE 416 981. Harlsey Castle. Scheduled No NY/442. (5)
Listed by Cathcart King (6)
Short note following a survey by EDAS in 2007. The earthworks are divided into two areas, a more ornamental element to the east containing the ponds and orchards, and the inner court containing the principle buildings. (7) |