King John's Palace is a mid 12th century fortified timber royal residence or hunting lodge, founded by King Henry II. Possibly built on the site of a chapel, founded by King Edwin of Northumbria, the palace was rebuilt in stone, in 1176-80. The site was encased by a ditch and a timber palisade, which was flanked by a great gate with chamber over. In 1244, King Henry III ordered a new hall, kitchen and a wardrobe to be built in wood. Ruinous by 1525 the three remaining walls, are probably the undercroft of large chambers with chapels, built by King Edward I in 1278-80. 8 miles north-east is Laxton Castle.