Castle Howe is a late 11th century earthwork motte and bailey fortress, founded by Ivo de Taillebois. In the early 13th century, the castle was abandoned, after its was captured and burnt in a Scottish raid. The large flat-topped motte, which is partly encased by a deep western ditch, is now crowned by an obelisk. Sadly the eastern triangular bailey, has been damaged when being levelled to make a public park. The castle is the predecessor of Kendal Castle, which stands on the opposite ridge.