The Skipton Castle is a breathtaking fortress in NorthYorkshire. Built by Robert de Romille in 1090, it's today recognized as one of the most complete and well preserved medieval castles in all England.
A strategic defensive point by the cliffs
So, as it would be expected for over 900 years of amazing preservation, the towers of Skipton are filled with history waiting to be told.
The building was part of William I's strategy to suppress opposition to Norman rule in Northern England. Therefore, the Norman Baron Romille built the fortress in the middle of a commercial route between Ribshester and York. It also possessed strong natural defences from a steep natural scarp that covered the north and north-west zone.
This castle's strategic position meant it found itself regularly embroiled in the Anglo-Scottish wars during the XVIIand XVIII. Which meant it had the earth and wood castle had to be reinforced in stone very early on to withstand the attacks from the Scots.
The beginning of the 350 year Clifford's lineage
Romille's lineage finished with Aveline de Forzt, who died in 1274 without an heir, therefore making the castle Royal ownership. In 1310 Edward II granted the castle to Robert Clifford who was appointed Lord Clifford of Skipton since the family were strong supporters of the Lancastrian monarchs.
Robert Clifford ordered many improvements to the fortifications, including a Barden Tower since he missed his rural upbringing. The Clifford lineage continued his legacy and added the Long Galley and the Octagonal tower in 1535, transforming the bold fortress into a palace.
The Civil War and Three Year Siege
Unfortunately, this did not last long. With the outbreak of the Civil War in 1642, the Skipton Castle had to be refortified and garrisoned for the King. Thus making it the only Royalist stronghold in the north of England. They resisted a three-year siege, and it is said that during the siege, sheep fleeces were hung over the walls to deaden the impact from the cannon fire.
It was on December 1645 when the garrison finally succumbed and negotiated a surrender.
Not short after, in 1648, the Second Civil War started and once again the Royalists forces occupied Skipton Castle. Unfortunately, this time Parliament resolved to destroy the castle and ordered it to be slighted. Years later and after the wars, Lady Anne Clifford, the last Clifford owner after 350 years of lineage, claimed back the possession of the ruined structure and commenced to rebuild and repair.
Recent developments
Even today, archeologists and historians have continued to make discoveries on the layout of the Castle. An ancient well was uncovered, which explains how the castle garrison managed to survive during the siege of 1643-5.
Today, the fortress continues to educate on England's history trough research, school groups and guided visits to the facility. On the video below you can have a virtual tour!