That said, I recall my parents speaking to the vicar who stated that there is a tunnel leading from the crypts below St Mary's down Church Lane and is impassable due to collapse.So there you have it, hopefully you will forgive the thread resurrection. the house was once owned by the undertaker. Would highly recommend a visit. Tue 13 Jun 2023 - Pontefract - Welcome to Yorkshire Get ready for a sensational singalong of your favour Get set for A Right Royal Day Out! Pontefract Castle was once one of the biggest and most feared fortifications in Yorkshire. However I'd never been. 95% of travellers recommend this experience. These events aroused Bolingbroke to return to England to claim his rights to the Duchy of Lancaster and the properties of his father. [1], The castle has several unusual features. Pontefract Castle is pleased to announce a fantastic new event for 2023! Has your imagination been sparked? This article will tell you all about this interesting place. Workshop, ON Discover the best English Civil War Sites and Battlefields, from Bishop's Waltham Palace to Goodrich Castle and more. Join Pontefract Castle for a special Heritage Open Day tour under the keep of the castle! Did the Easter trail for the dragon egg. . Pontefract also has an torre albarrana, a fortification almost unknown outside the Iberian Peninsula. Castles varied in shapes and sizes throughout history with later kings and rulers adopting a "bigger is . Venue. History Museum Pontefract, Yorkshire, England pontefractcastle.co.uk Joined August 2014. Sorry, really sorry - historians probably hate that kind of thing.During renovations we found a bricked up doorway/arch in the foundations of the exterior wall at the back of the house (North east corner). Known as the Swillington Tower, the detached tower was attached to the north wall by a bridge. Tap & Barrel Pontefract. 8:30 am [8], On his way south to London, King James rode from Grimston Park to view Pontefract Castle on 19 April 1603 and stayed the night at the Bear Inn at Doncaster. It was alleged during his visit that Henry VIII's fifth wife, Catherine Howard, committed her first act of adultery with Sir Thomas Culpeper at Pontefract Castle, for which she was later apprehended and beheaded at the Tower of London without trial. Today, the castle is a place of family-friendly adventure, with wide open spaces to explore and play, and fascinating ruins to investigate. the house was once owned by the undertaker. A brief history of the castle | Pontefract Castle - DigVentures Ben explained the way to get there on foot and where the monument was and also informed us about the Museum in the town. It started life in 1070 when Ilbert de Lacy built a wooden castle on land that was given to him by William the Conqueror. Pontefract Castle was used extensively during the War of the Roses (1455 - 1485), when it was held by the Yorkist family. It was originally constructed by William the Conqueror in 1067 to protect against rebellion within the kingdom, as well as Scotland. The castle was besieged for a year, but the rebels eventually surrendered due to lack of supplies. Join us for an explore of Pontefract Castle, England's Most Fearsome Fort.We show you around the Castle Grounds, exploring all the remains and the stories behind them. more. Heritage Sometime before Christmas that year he was moved to Pontefract Castle (via Knaresborough) where he remained under guard until his death, perhaps on 14 February 1400. The grounds are well kept and there's more of the castle left than I though there would be. Tue 09 May 2023 - Urbex: The White House Tunnel, Pontefract - October 2012 It was besieged three times during the Civil War and having withstood the first siege in 1644 it had to surrender to Parliament after the second siege in 1645. When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site. Theatre, ON Landmark or Historical Building The castle is a good example of a Norman fortress, and although it initially appears to be very small, it contains many features that were built for defence including a secret tunnel and escape-route. PONTEFRACT CASTLE. The True Tale of Wales Legendary Hay Castle, 8 Formidable Fighters of the Hellenistic Period, Operation Unthinkable: Churchills Postwar Contingency Plan, The Pirates Code: Laws and Life Aboard Ship, How the Island of Rhodes Overcame a Superpower, Historical Trips - Book your next historical adventure, 10 Must-See Medieval Landmarks in England, Join Dan Snow for the Anniversary of the D-Day Landings, Lost Literature: Why Most English Texts Didnt Survive the Middle Ages, The Legacy of Hal 9000: How Science Fiction Depictions of AI Have Changed Over Time. The interpretation panels are very informative. The Medieval Castle's Best Defense Features & Mechanisms by Steve Jones Fri 02 May, 2014 10:18 am, Post - 5:00 pm, Saturday : When knocked out we found a passage way behind it that led in the general direction of the church (i.e. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. And, for more slander to thy dismal seat, Continue onto Park Road (A639) There is much speculation that William gave permission for a monastery to be built there, and this may be why it was named Pontefract (literally, broken bridge) by the locals. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Its purpose was to increase the defender's range of flanking fire. - 5:00 pm, Thursday : However it was starting to head uphill. Origins of Pontefract Castle . Then thus: I have from Port Le Blanc, Nearest train station: Monkhill/Baghill Railway Station, By Road: Nowadays it's a tourist attraction. Sat 15 Jul 2023 - One of the most infamous uses of the castle was to imprison Richard II who eventually died of starvation in the castle. It was the seat of Thomas Earl of Lancaster. They will eventually be house at the Pontefract Museum. Recent excavation at the castle has unearthed many English Civil War items, both domestic and military, from helmets and spurs to spoons and combs. Pontefract Castle was used extensively during the War of the Roses (1455 1485), when it was held by the Yorkist family. Age guidance. Media. 105. Initially the castle was a wooden structure which was replaced with stone over time. I've noticed there are some events here and I will be booking. Various chroniclers suggest that Richard was starved to death by his captors, and others suggest he starved himself. Pontefract Castle. Tour, ON 91% of travellers recommend this experience. Entrance to the castle is FREE, we look forward to seeing you soon! . Sun 16 Jul 2023 - chris 90 wrote: according to a friends friend there is a tunnel that leads from a house in well lane Kippax across to the church yard some 300-500m in length. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Summer Opening Hours (1 April 30 September): Dont miss the latest from Wakefield Museums and Castles. Hope this helps x, Would it be suitable to walk the dog and have a meal, Dogs on leads are welcome at the castle, however they are not permitted in the activity center, shop or cafe at the moment. Pontefract Castle Wakefield, England, United Kingdom Originally a Norman structure, Pontefract castle played an increasingly important role in English Royal history for over 500 years. It is still possible to visit the castle's 11th-century cellars, which were used to store military equipment during the civil war. - 5:00 pm, Sunday : Poltergeist House 30 East Drive Pontefract . The Castle Coffee Shop at Pontefract Castle, Kings Coronation Weekend at Pontefract Castle, Pontefract Castle Dungeon Tour Heritage Open Day, Friends & Enemies Pontefract & Sandal Castles, Have a Dabble Christmas Batik Table Runner, Have a Dabble Natural Christmas Garland, Have a Dabble Chocolate Christmas Treats, Truth, Myths & Lies 6 Key Events in the History of Pontefract Castle. I would like to know whether dogs are welcome and there's anywhere to walk them. One of the most fascinating aspects for visitors are the so-called Magazine Tours which take people underground to view the castles notorious cellars and dungeons, as well as the writing and names scratched onto the walls by the unfortunate prisoners. [12], Oliver Cromwell led the final siege of Pontefract Castle in November 1648. The museum still contains various exhibits displaying the history of Pontefract Castle and life during medieval times including authentic swords, armour, tapestries and costumes. Another visit due then but it will have to be a Friday or the weekend! By 991emilias. Haunted Places in pontefract, Wakefield, United Kingdom These videos are made under Fair Use for educational purposes. Bolingbroke soon deposed Richard and took the crown for himself as Henry IV. 98% of travellers recommend this experience. Pontefract Races. The White House Tunnel - Pontefract. The castle grounds and visitor centre is also available to hire for private functions. Pontefract Castle ruins 1 Pontefract Castle, Castle Garth Pontefract WF8 1QH ( north of centre ). There's a garden of medicinal plants and the gardener, Carol, is a wealth of information about their uses and about mediaeval remedies for all kinds of ailments. Turn left onto Southgate (A645), For car parking: In 1461, Pontefract Castle was used as a prison by Richard Neville, who had recently taken the castle from the Lancastrians. Stop off at the Castle Coffee Shop for hot and cold drinks and snacks. Not usually open to the public, the keep gate is often connected with stories about secret tunnels leading to the castle. Sat 06 May 2023. Unfortunately nothing remains of the Great Hall except the cellars underneath. Pontefract Castle 4 291 reviews #1 of 22 things to do in Pontefract Castles Closed now 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About From its construction in 1070 to its destruction after the Civil Wars, this once-fearsome fortress dominated Yorkshire and beyond, earning the nickname, "Key to the North". Craft Other notable events said to have taken place here include the surrender of the castle to the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels who rose up against Henry VIII as well as being a setting for the infamous liaisons between Henrys fifth queen, Catherine Howard, and Thomas Culpeper. ON Is it suitable for disabled wheelchair user. Oliver Cromwell led a siege of the castle in 1648. In 1265, Simon de Montfort (a nobleman and politician) took control of Pontefract Castle after King Henry III failed to support him during the Second Barons War. Sat 06 May 2023 - 50m it was collapsed and impassable. Pontefract Castle Museum and Art Gallery is now located at the site of the castle, but only two walls remain from the original structure. You can however have a coffee and something to eat if you wish outside the cafe in our seating area and your dog is welcome outside with you. Chambers excavated into the rock in the inner bailey possibly indicate the site of the old hall and the North Bailey gate is marked by the remains of a rectangular tower. The Hidden Dungeons of Pontefract Castle, and a look into the rumours of Secret Tunnels under Pontefract. Families, ON Pontefract Castle - Britain's Castles Click the link for further information and to secure your tickets now! . This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in United Kingdom. Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page. Lovely to delve into a bit of history. Heritage Within the guilty closure of thy walls We do however have a seating area outside the cafe where you are most welcome to come along have a coffee and a light lunch and have your dog with you outside. Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps. Photo Andrew Tivenan. With the accession of the Lancastrians to the throne, Pontefract quickly began to hold a key position in the north of England, growing in size and importance whilst other castles nearby dwindled. Very interesting place, well kept and beautiful views. It started life in 1070 when Ilbert de Lacy built a wooden castle on land that was given to him by William the Conqueror. This made it one of the strongest castles in the north of England. Known for having a bloody prison reputation, the castle was made up of a large network of dungeons. Pontefract Castle. [17]. Here are a couple of relevant facts about that house and the tunnel in question:The date on the side of the house (16xx - if I recall correctly) is incorrect, in fact it is made up. Located in the historic market town of Pontefract, from its construction in 1070 to its demise following the Civil Wars, the once-fearsome fortress of Pontefract Castle dominated Yorkshire and beyond, bearing witness to some of England's most momentous historical events earning itself the name of the Key to the North!. Tickets are now available for Under the Keep of Pontefract Castle - Heritage Open Days at Pontefract Castle, Pontefract on Sun 17 Sep 2023 at 10:30AM. Steve JonesI don't know everything, I just like to give that impression! Workshop, Now - Pontefract Castle was a key strategic military stronghold in Northern England which played a crucial role in many of the countrys most bitter conflicts for over five hundred years. The Great Gate flanked by 14th-century semi-circular towers had inner and outer barbicans. These estates were known as the Honour of Pontefract, and de Lacy administered his . O thou bloody prison, Other examples of this type of Keep are Clifford's Tower, York and at the Chteau d'tampes in France. Ignite your imagination as you explore the pathways and take in some of the imposing stonework. The White House Tunnel - Pontefract. We take a look at the rumours of Secret Tunnels underneath the. The first stone castle was built by William the Conqueror when he invaded England in 1066. the magazine/dungeon tour is about 3 an adult, directions from Saddleworth, nr Oldham to Pontefract. brilliant experience. The Secret Tunnel Of Pontefract Castle | What's Inside? Tue 10 Oct 2023, ON King RichardII is thought to have died there. according to a friends friend there is a tunnel that leads from a house in well lane Kippax across to the church yard some 300-500m in length. I am un aware of the state of the tunnel (ie still insitu are blocked up).I will try and find more info on this. it is wonderful to actually have some evidence of a possible tunnel instead of just stories as usual! The second siege began on 21 March 1645, shortly after the end of the first siege, and the garrison surrendered in July after hearing the news of Charles I's defeat at the Battle of Naseby. Plate 1.42: Pontefract Castle Fatal and ominous to noble peers! In 1489, Pontefract Castle was besieged by Henry VII (who had become king after Richard III was killed, in battle). And shortly mean to touch our northern shore. Sunday 14th May 2023. There is not much in the way of shopping so we walked on to the castle. Built from the 1070s onwards, and at the tail end of a 3.5m refurbishment, the medieval keep was the site of multiple royal seizures . Pontefract Castle had been demolished in 1649 and early eighteenth-century visitors must have found it difficult to square the ruinous remains, leased in 1720 by a local family to grow and store licorice crops, with the stately castle depicted on Vertue's engraving of the original 1561 drawing. Pontefract.org.uk - All content copyright 2014. Pontefract Castle - Wakefield Council It was subsequently destroyed by cannon fire and fell into disrepair. including a secret tunnel and escape-route. The castle has had a history of rebellion, war and destruction since its inception. It was during this period that the castle suffered ruin and dilapidation until it was finally demolished during the second English Civil War. If you enjoyed this article you might also like to read about: Hi, my name is Amy and I am a UK based teacher and blogger. Sun 10 Sep 2023 - Pontefract Castle Built in 1070, Pontefract was an important medieval castle. In the library, an upset girl is seen; in the alcove, a vicar or priest likes to appear; in the tunnels, a nurse frequently shows up (said to be the most commonly . [10] The castle was included in English jointure property of his wife, Anne of Denmark. Written March 6, 2020. Drakelow Tunnels Ghost Hunts, Worcestershire - HauntedHappenings.co.uk Yes in the main part of the castle but not suitable for the tower or dungeons. With eight tall ships, three thousand men of war,
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