Summary : Mansion built circa 1600, incorporating an earlier structure. Originally U-shaped in plan, the north wing was added in the 19th century, enclosing the central courtyard. The three storey south front is flanked by round angle towers, one of which is loopholed. Part of the north wing may pre-date the remainder, possibly having been built as a service wing. The west wing was refaced in 1864. The house served as a military headquarters during the Second World War and a prisoner of war camp was constructed in the grounds. It consisted of Nissen huts that held 200 German officers. It was subsequently sold and converted into a girls' school. It has been a hotel since 1961. |
More information : NZ 23101886 Walworth Castle (NAT). (1) Surveyed. (2)
Walworth Castle Residential School; two and three storeyed building of circa 1600 with 18th century interior and 19th century alterations. Interior drastically recast for schools use by Durham County Council. Grade 1. (3)
As described, see photographs. The castle is now closed as a school, and is undergoing refurbishment with a view to re-opening it as an hotel. (4)
Mansion built circa 1600, incorporating an earlier structure. Originally U-shaped in plan, the north wing was added in the 19th century, enclosing the central courtyard. The three storey south front is flanked by round angle towers, one of which is loopholed. Part of the north wing may pre-date the remainder, possibly having been built as a service wing. The west wing was refaced in 1864. The house served as a military headquarters during World War II and was subsequently sold and converted into a girls' school. It has been a hotel since 1961. Listed Grade I. (5-7)
The site of a Second World War prisoner of war camp at Walworth Castle (NZ 2316 1884), known as Camp 36. It consisted of Nissen huts dispersed in the grounds of the castle. (8)
A former army major in command of the prisoner of war camp at Walworth Castle recalls that 200 German prisoners were billeted there. The prisoners stayed in Nissen huts and were allowed to built a miniature German castle at the camp entrance, in which to have a theatre and broadcast relay system. (9) |