Richmond
Castle was originally a Norman stone gatehouse and courtyard fortress, founded by Alan the Red,
count of Penthievre. Two massive late 11th century curtain walls, flanked by rectangular
towers, stand against the steep banks of the River Swale. They form a formidable
triangular platform, with a gatehouse at the apex and the two storey Scolland's
Hall, at the south-east angle. In the 12th century, the gatehouse was replaced
by an impressive four storey keep, with two storey turrets on the angles. A small
walled barbican, flanked by an outer gatehouse defended the keep and east of Scolland's
Hall, the Cockpit, the triangular second ward was enclosed by a curtain wall,
with a wide arched gateway. 6 miles south-west is Walburn
Hall and 11 miles north-west is Scargill Castle.
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