Moat Hill was originally an 11th century earth and timber ringwork, founded by Roger de Poitevin. In the early 12th century, Michael le Fleming filled in the ringwork to make an earthwork flat-topped motte. A crescent shaped bailey was added to the north but sadly the site which stands against the sea cliff, is being eroded away. In the late 12th or early 13th century, the motte was heightened and the surrounding ditches widened but the castle was soon abandoned unfinished. 2 miles north-west is Gleaston Castle and 6 miles south-west is Piel Castle.