Dorstone Castle facts for kids
Dorstone Castle was once a castle in the small village of Dorstone. This village is in Herefordshire, England. It is about 6 miles east of Hay-on-Wye. Today, only the earthworks of the castle remain.
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What Was Dorstone Castle?
Dorstone Castle was a type of early castle called a motte and bailey castle. These castles were popular in England after the Norman Conquest. A motte is a large mound of earth. A bailey is a walled courtyard next to it.
How Old Was the Castle?
This castle likely started in the 12th century. At that time, the land was owned by the de Sollers family. They would have built the first simple defenses.
Why Was the Castle Strengthened?
In 1403, King Henry IV was the ruler of England. He gave the castle to Sir Walter Fitzwalter. Sir Walter was an important baron. The King asked him to make the castle stronger.
Who Was Owain Glyndŵr?
The castle needed strengthening because of Owain Glyndŵr. He was a Welsh leader. Owain was leading a rebellion against English rule. King Henry IV wanted to protect the area from possible attacks by Owain's forces.
Who Owned Dorstone Castle?
After Sir Walter Fitzwalter, the castle changed owners many times. Lady Fitzwalter passed away around 1422. Then, Richard de la Mare owned it. Later, the Lyster family took ownership. They sold it to Morgan Aubrey.
The Cornewall Family
In 1780, the Cornewall family bought the castle. They lived nearby at Moccas Court. Over time, the castle fell into ruin. Now, only the earthworks are left to see. These earthworks show where the castle once stood.
