Warkworth Castle

Warkworth Castle dates back in parts to the 12th century and bore witness to some of the most dramatic events in the border wars between England and Scotland.

Strategically positioned just miles from the Scottish border, Warkworth Castle was hotly contested in battles and sieges over the centuries, changing hands multiple times between the English and Scots.

Early Days

The Beginnings

Warkworth Castle was first built in the 1100s by the mighty Percy family, who were the Earls of Northumberland. The Percys chose the site for its closeness to Scotland. They wanted a strong fortress to defend against Scottish attacks. The earliest surviving parts of the castle are from this Norman time. These include the huge keep and imposing curtain walls.

Wars with Scotland

Being near Scotland meant Warkworth was in the centre of fighting between England and Scotland for centuries. In the 1300s it faced many sieges and raids during Scotland’s Wars of Independence. Scottish leaders like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce tried to capture Warkworth. The castle’s tough design allowed it to withstand their fierce attacks. But the Scots still inflicted much damage on the fortress.

Standing Firm

Despite the sieges, Warkworth held firm. Repairs kept it from ruin. The Percy stronghold stopped the Scots from taking over northern England. This early history showed Warkworth Castle’s key place in border warfare.

The Wars of the Roses

A Family Divided

During the 1400s, England was torn apart by the Wars of the Roses. This was a fight between two royal houses – Lancaster and York. The Percy family of Warkworth supported Lancaster. Their rivals in the area, the Nevilles, backed York. So the castle was caught up in this nationwide clash.

York Victory and Loss

In 1464 the Yorkists seized Warkworth Castle after a long battle. The Nevilles helped Warwick the Kingmaker capture the fortress from the Percys. But the Percys later took back Warkworth for Lancaster. The castle changed hands during the wars. It was an important gain for each side.

Shifting Control

As the Wars dragged on, power in the region kept changing. First the Percys held Warkworth, then the Nevilles claimed it for York. The castle was a prize that boosted whoever controlled it. This volatile period cemented its role in struggles for the English throne.

Border Defence

Trouble With Scotland Even after the Wars of the Roses ended, tension remained between England and Scotland. So Warkworth kept its key position defending the border area. It stayed a strong fortress in case fighting broke out.

Transition of Power

That changed when King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England in 1603. With one king ruling both nations, major conflicts died down. Warkworth’s importance as a border defence faded after centuries guarding against Scotland.

The Later Years

Without war, Warkworth slipped into decline by the 1600s. Though still held by the Percys, they paid little attention to the castle. With no need for border protection, it lost its purpose. Warkworth settled into a quieter life away from war.

From Fortress to Ruins

Abandonment

With no more battles to fight, Warkworth Castle was neglected by the 1700s. The Percys owned it but they now lived in a grand house nearby. The old castle decayed as it sat unused.

Crumbling Stones

Over the centuries without care, the once mighty Warkworth turned into ruins. Parts of walls and towers collapsed. Roofs vanished, leaving empty shells. Stones fell and broke over time. But key structures survived.

Historic Remnants

Today the great keep still stands tall, along with the imposing gatehouse. Curtain walls trace the castle’s layout. The ruins let us imagine how Warkworth looked in its prime. Now these remnants preserve its history for all to see.

Legacy

Over its long history, Warkworth Castle played a central part in Northern England’s violent struggles for power.

The fortress witnessed dreadful warfare between England and Scotland. It endured many battles and sieges, especially in medieval times. Though often damaged, the castle still stands.

Symbol of History

Today the dramatic ruins of Warkworth Castle allow us to envision the clashes of the past. Crumbling walls tell the tale of English-Scottish wars and political turmoil. This site remains one of the best preserved medieval castles in the region. As an icon of the area’s history, it reminds us of the devastating conflicts once fought on this frontier.

How to find Warkworth Castle

Map to Warkworth Castle Map and directions

Warkworth Castle address Warkworth Castle, Castle Street, Warkworth, Northumberland, North of Tyne, England, NE65 0UJ, United Kingdom

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