William the Conqueror is a name synonymous with English history. His victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 is a date etched into the English conscience from early school days. The Norman Duke became the English King William I, but was he actually a Viking? No, William the Conqueror was a Norman. However, Normans …
When we think of castles we primarily think of imposing defensive walls and towers. However, behind these walls are the rooms where everyday castle life is carried out. This is where the custodian of the castle and his family work, play, eat and sleep. So, how many rooms does a functioning castle have? Nine rooms …
The wonderfully diverse landscapes of Northumberland provide a feeling of unspoiled natural beauty. However, this historic old English county’s location has placed it front and center of conflict down the centuries. The result is a paradise for castle lovers, but just how many castles does Northumberland have? There are over 70 castles dotted around Northumberland …
The stone keep castle is the image most of us will have of what a medieval castle should look like. A product of Norman design, they were built to withstand attack while radiating power and prestige. Although the size and shape could vary, there are common features you would expect to find within a stone …
Edinburgh Castle is perched high above the Scottish capital on an outcrop of volcanic rock. The castle dominates the skyline, with the city spread out beneath its defensive walls. As you walk up the Royal Mile, the castle looms large ahead, but just how big is Edinburgh Castle? Edinburgh Castle measures 384,669 sq ft (35,737 …
Caernarfon Castle is one of the great medieval military fortifications. This magnificent structure in North Wales attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is a place steeped in history, but who has called Caernarfon Castle home through the centuries following its construction? King Edward I was the first resident of Caernarfon Castle. Constructed to help …
Spectacular Conwy Castle is one of Europe’s finest medieval castles. It forms part of the ‘iron ring of castles’ built by the English King Edward I to deter future Welsh rebellions. The castle took just four years to build, but who designed and built this medieval masterpiece? Conwy Castle was built by the architect Master …
It is only 80 years ago when Londoners were wondering where the next bomb would fall. Targeting towns and cities with bombing raids was a strategic decision during the second world war, aimed at disrupting supply chains and undermining citizen morale. From September 1940, London took a horrific pounding from the sky. Yet, when did …
The Tower of London has stood as an imposing fortress and garrison since the days of William the Conqueror. Nowadays, it is best known as a prison where many famous historical names spent their final days. However, for 500 years the Tower also served as a royal residence, where a Medieval Palace housed luxurious apartments. …
In the ninth century, Scotland, as we know it today was still divided along tribal grounds. The Picts ruled over much of the territory north of the Forth, except for the Gaelic kingdom of Dal Riata that extended along the western coast. It was a time when Viking raids were taking their toll. One man …
