Armathwaite Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Armathwaite Castle |
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| Armathwaite, Cumbria, England | |
Armathwaite Castle
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 Armathwaite Castle
Armathwaite Castle
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| Coordinates | 54°48′20″N 2°46′12″W / 54.8055°N 2.7701°W |
| Type | Converted Pele tower |
| Site information | |
| Owner | Private |
| Site history | |
| Materials | Stone |
Armathwaite Castle is a historic building in the village of Armathwaite, Cumbria, England. It stands right by the River Eden. This castle was first built in the 1400s to protect the area from Scottish raiders. Over time, it was changed into a large home, or mansion. Today, it is a special building known as a Grade II* listed building, which means it's very important and protected.
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What is Armathwaite Castle?
Armathwaite Castle was constructed in the 15th century. It was built by the Skelton family in a strong spot next to the River Eden. The exact year it was finished isn't known, but it was likely around 1445. The Skelton family was quite famous in the area. They even represented Cumberland and Carlisle in the English Parliament.
Castle Design and Purpose
The castle was originally a four-story pele tower. A pele tower is a small, fortified tower common in northern England and Scotland. It was designed to protect against raids. The castle's front was made from cut stone, making it very strong. Its main job was to defend the Eden valley from Scottish attackers.
The castle estate also included a place called Nun's Close. Some people believe William Rufus, an old English king, founded a religious house there.
Who Lived at the Castle?
The Skelton family lived at Armathwaite Castle for a long time, until 1712. That year, Richard Skelton sold the castle to William Sanderson. Later, in 1727, Robert Sanderson Milbourne inherited the castle. Robert was a scholar who helped create a huge collection of old treaties. He used the castle to keep his own collection of old items and historical pieces.
Changes Over Time
The castle later passed to the Milbourne family. In 1846, it was taken over by William Lowther, who was the 2nd Earl of Lonsdale. By 1892, reports said the castle was in bad shape.
In the early 1800s, Armathwaite Castle was changed into a mansion. Its outside was covered with smooth, cut stone in a classical style. This means it looked like ancient Greek or Roman buildings. An extra wing was added next to it for offices.
Today, Armathwaite Castle is owned by a private person or family.
See Also
