More information : [SP 284647] Warwick Castle [LB] [SP 283646] Ethelfleda's Mount [LB]. (1)
Warwick Castle comprises a large residential block, which is mainly Jacobean with Victorian Gothic resteration, set within a 14th c. enceinte wall and superimposed on the bailey of a Norman Motte-and-bailey, the motte being on the SW side.
It is recorded that Ethelfleda made a Burh at Warwick, and the Motte has been supposed to be this, and in consequence is called 'Ethelfleda's Mount'. [See attached copy of Guide Book] (2)
The castle and its earthworks are correctly shown on the current 25". Ethelfleda's Burh is unlocated and there is no evidence to connect it with the motte. (3)
Scheduled as 'Warwick Castle (uninhabited parts)'. (4) Warwick Castle, probably dating from pre-Norman times. Much medieval work remains. Good C18 and later additions. In 1871 a fire gutted the Great Hall and East Wing, these being restored by Anthony Salvin. This castle, (containing a fine collection of antiques and works of art) is considered of very great national interest. Main block with C14 walls and vaulted undercroft. Caesar's tower and Guy's tower, the Gatehouse and its Barbican also C14. The curtain walls may date from this period. Bear and Clarence towers C15, left incomplete 1485 and later given battlements; probably intended as a stronghold within the castle similar to that at Raglan.
Late C17 internal features include exceptional plasterwork and wood carvings to the Cedar Room by Roger and William Hurlbut, completed 1678. Altered 1753-5 by Lancelot Brown, who rebuilt the porch and stairway to the Great Hall. Porch extended forward and additional rooms built beside it, 1763-9, by Timothy Lightoler. Watergate tower restored by A Salvin 1861-3. Ancient Monument. (5)
Detailed history and description of the castle. (6)
Additional bibliography. (7-12) |