Gainsborough Old Hall was originally a 14th century fortified manor house, which was encased by a moat. In 1464, Thomas Burgh founded the large timber-framed open courtyard house, with a magnificent brick kitchen, great hall and two ranges, of two storeys. In 1469, the house was damaged by fire, after an attack by the Lancastrian forces of Lord Welles. In 1479, a new three storey west range was built and an embattled polygonal brick tower, of three storeys added to the north-east angle of the east range. King Richard lll in 1483 and King Henry Vlll in 1541, both stayed at the hall. A mile north is Gainsborough Castle and 7 miles south is Torksey Castle.