Leicester Castle |
Hob Uid: 316859 | |
Location : City of Leicester Non Civil Parish
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Grid Ref : SK5826004130 |
Summary : A medieval motte and bailey, probably built by Robert de Beaumont, first Earl of Leicester circa 1068 and damaged in a rebellion of 1101, surviving as an earthwork. The castle was taken and dismantled in 1173. The castle mound is about 30 feet high, the steepest scars being 4 feet on the south west and the diameter of the level summit 100 feet. It was considerably higher, probably 12 to 15 feet until reduced and levelled for a bowling green in the 19th century. Excavations have located the castle wall. |
More information : Castle Mound [GT] Centred at (SK 58260413) Castle (rems of) [GT] (SK 5825 0418) (1)
The original motte and bailey type castle was erected by William the Conqueror in 1068 in the SW corner of the town, the site affording both the domination of the latter and easy access by the river. The bailey lay to the north and north east, a steep scarp to the south protecting it on the west. It was probably rebuilt by Robert de Beaumont, 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 stone hall (SK 50 SE 165).(2)
The Castle Mound is about 30 feet high, the steepest scars being 4ft on the SW and the diameter of the level summit 100 feet. It was considerably higher, probably 12-15 feet until reduced and levelled for a bowling green over a century ago. (3)
The description of the motte is correct. It is tree-covered and in good condition. See GP 53/89/8 - Castle Mound from SW showing (A-B) portion of 15th century Castle Wall. No change Published survey (1/1250). (4)
SK 582 041. The mound of Leicester Castle. Scheduled. (5)
Excavations 36 feet West of the Turret Gateway in 1951 located the face of the castle wall. (6)
Cathcart King states that the castle was taken and dismantled in 1173. It was reoccupied asa aresidence rather than a fortified place, and a weak outer enclosure was added in 1422-3. (7)
Leicester Castle. Scheduling amended. (8) |