Skipton Castle was originally a late 11th century earth and timber enclosure fortress, founded by Robert de Romille. In the 12th century, William le Fortibus founded the stone castle, which stands against the steep banks of the Eller Beck. From 1310, the Clifford family began to strengthen the castle, adding the huge drum towers to inner bailey and encasing the outer bailey with a curtain wall, flanked by bastions and a twin-towered gatehouse. The castle which suffered Civil War slighting in 1648, was restored in 1657-58 by the remarkable Lady Anne Clifford. 3 miles south is Farnhill Hall and 4 miles north is Norton Tower.