Alnwick Castle is an 11th century earthwork motte and baileys fortress, founded by Yves de Vescy. In the 12th century, Eustace fitz John founded a strongly fortified stone castle, which was extensively rebuilt in the 14th century. The shell keep was strengthened, with a cluster of seven semi-circular tower and a fine gatehouse. The curtain walls around both baileys, are well flanked with towers and a middle and outer gatehouse. The three storey outer gatehouse, is defended by a fine turreted barbican and in the true Northern tradition, stone defenders crown the battlements. In the 18th century, Robert Adam gave the derelict castle a Gothic revival restoration and nearby in the town is Bondgate Tower. 7 miles north-east is Craster Tower and 7 miles south-east is Warkworth Castle.