More information : [SK 3888 2522] Castle [G.T.] (Remains of) (1)
Licence to crenellate Melbourne Castle was granted to Robert of Holland in 1311. It was a large, many-towered group of structures when it was engraved in 1733, although it had been dismantled in 1460 (2). Leland, however, reported it to be in a good state of repair c. 1540 (3).
The only extant remains are a piece of ruined wall and the semi-circular foundation of a turret at Castle Farm. Traces of possible earthworks beyond are of the slightest character (4).(2-4)
The extant stretch of wall noted by authy.4 is situated at SK 3889 2522 and attains a max. height of 5.5m. GP AO/62/40/5 S.W. aspect. Foundations exist at SK 3892 2523 but are not recognisable as being associated with a former turret. No earthworks were noted during field investigation. (5)
Authy. 6. correct. (6)
Melbourne Castle was built by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, who died in 1322. (7). Although partly dismantled in 1460, extensive repairs were made from 1483-5. However, the castle fell into ruin in the 17th century and now only a length of rubble wall 18ft. high, probably of the 14th century remains behind the buildings of Castle Farm.
Castle Farm House, a 17th - 18th century, two-storeyed, red-brick building of L-shaped plan, probably incorporates the materials of Melbourne Castle. In the garden there is a small 16th or 17th century outbuilding with a 9-panel width of square panelled timber.
Castle Farm House, including the outbuilding and remains of Melbourne Castle, grade 2. Melbourne Castle. Scheduled. (9). (7-9)
Castle farmhouse and ruins of Melbourne Castle and outbuildings. Farmhouse and attached castle walls with outbuildings c1311 with 15th and 16th cent additions and early 18th with 19th and 20th cent alterations and additions. Grade II. (10)
Scheduled. (11)
Listed. (12) |