The History of Tutbury Castle

Standing against the steep banks of the River Dove Tutbury castle is an impressive fortress. The tower on top of the motte dates from the mid 18th century and the original Norman castle is said to date back to 1071, on the site of a saxon fort. Belonging first to Hugh de Avranches and then to Henry, Lord of Ferres and Chambrais in Normandy.

The original approach to the castle is defended by a high rampart, a wide ditch and two semi-circular outer baileys. William Ferrers, in the 12th century, added a shell keep to the motte and the chapel in the inner bailey.

In 1174, following a disagreement with William Ferrers, King Henry II lay siege to the castle and ordered it to be demolished. In 1263 it came under further attack from Prince Edward. Two years later, Henry III gave Tutbury Castle to his younger son Edmund. It has remained in the hands of the Earls and Dukes of Lancaster ever since.

In 1362 new walls, the north & south towers and other buildings were added on by John of Gaunt, second Duke of Lancaster. And in the late 16th Century the castle was used to keep Mary Queen of Scots imprisoned.

The final straw came in 1646, during the civil war when parliamentary forces inflicted even more damaged leaving the ruins you can see today. Although an 18th Century house now stands on the site of the King's lodging and Julius's tower folly crowns the motte.