Bellingham Castle facts for kids

Bellingham Castle was an old motte and bailey castle in Northumberland, England. It was built by the De Bellingham family. Today, only small traces of it remain near the village of Bellingham. This castle was once an important part of the area's history.

Bellingham Castle: A Look Back

What Was Bellingham Castle?

Bellingham Castle was a type of early castle called a motte and bailey. This kind of castle had two main parts:

• A "motte" was a large earth mound. A wooden tower or keep stood on top of it.
• A "bailey" was a fenced-in area below the motte. It held buildings like stables and homes.

These castles were quick to build. They were common in England after the Norman Conquest.

Where Was This Castle Located?

The castle's remains are about 5 miles east of Dally Castle. They are close to the village of Bellingham in Northumberland. The exact spot of the castle is now uncertain. A raised mound called Hallsfield is thought to be its location. However, some experts believe this mound might be natural.

Who Built Bellingham Castle?

There is no sign of a castle here before 1157. That year, the land was given to the King of Scotland. Later, during the time of King Richard II, a castle was built.

• A man named Richard De Bellingham built it.
• He was part of the De Bellingham family.
• The king gave his family the land and the title of Baron.

How Did the Castle Change Hands?

After the De Bellingham family, the castle estate went to the Derwentwater family.

• A later owner was James Radclyffe, 3rd Earl of Derwentwater.
• He joined a rebellion in 1715. This was called the Jacobite Rising.
• Because of this, he lost his title and his estate.
• The manor was then given to the Governors of the Greenwich Hospital.

What's Left of the Castle Today?

By the 1200s, most signs of Bellingham Castle were gone. Today, it is hard to find any clear remains. Even the exact spot of the castle is debated. The mound thought to be the castle's earthworks might be natural. A smaller mound on top is too small for a defensive tower. This makes its true location a mystery.

Images for kids

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  Motte of Bellingham Castle