Summary : The Norman keep built to replace the motte and bailey castle that originally existed on the site (see UID 13288). The keep was built circa 1170 and at the time of three storeys. The addition of one very tall storey without windows seems to have followed before the end of the century. The parapet and upstanding angle-turrets seem to be of late 13th or early 14th century date. The tops of the turrets are of much later restoration. The keep was roofless in the 17th century but was restored by Lady Anne Clifford. During the 1651-1653 restoration the main cross-wall was inserted, it is substantial and bears the arms of Countess Clifford. The roof is probably 18th century. The 12th century walling is of small squared ashlar and the angles have clasping buttresses which continued up to the angle turrets. Listed building grade I. |