Bolsover Castle was originally an 11th century earthwork motte and bailey fortress, founded by William Peverel. In the 12th century, King Henry II founded the stone keep and bailey castle, when adding a small keep, encased by a curtain wall. To the south-east in Hornscroft Park, are all that remains of the medieval town's defensive, earthwork bank and ditch. In the 17th century, the Cavendish family swept away the castle and built the stunning Jacobean fantasy castle, on the medieval foundations. Standing on the end of a promontory and flanking the original oval Inner Court, is the four storey Little Castle, with its forecourt and twin towered gateway. Dividing the large outer ward, to make a triangular Great Court, is the unusual Riding School and the terrace range, which contains the main state rooms and the Great Gallery. Despite its embattled appearance, the castle was never designed for defence but for elegant living. 6 miles east at Cuckney is Castle Hill and 10 miles north-east at Worksop is Castle Hill.