Frodsham Castle facts for kids
Frodsham Castle was an important building located in the market town of Frodsham, in Cheshire, England. It began as a military fort, then became a large home known as a manor house. It even served as a prison! After being badly damaged during the Civil War, a new house called Park Place was built where it once stood.
Where Was Frodsham Castle?
The castle was built on high ground at the base of Overton Hill. This spot was at the western edge of Frodsham town. It was perfectly placed to guard a narrow path between Frodsham Marsh and the hill.
The Castle's History
It is believed that Hugh Lupus, the first Earl of Chester, built the castle around the year 1070. This first version was likely made of wood. It completely fell apart during the 1300s.
A new castle was later built on the same spot. This building was used by a "bailiff," who was like a manager. The bailiff looked after the area for the Lord of the Manor, who was usually the Earl of Chester or the King or Queen.
Many people think this building was more like a strong manor house than a true castle. This is because there isn't much proof it had strong defenses. Also, there's no record of anyone asking for permission to add "crenellations" (the battlements on top of castle walls). Even so, its walls were said to be "enormously thick." Later, it was even used as the prison for the Manor.
In the early 1600s, a man named Sir Thomas Savage bought the Manor, the Lordship, and Frodsham Castle from the Crown. These had belonged to the Frodsham family before. Sir Thomas passed away in 1635. His son, John, took over and later became the Earl Rivers.
During the Civil War, John Savage lived in a nearby mansion called Rocksavage. He supported the King (he was a Royalist). His home was damaged by the Parliament's forces, known as Parliamentarians. John Savage died in Frodsham Castle in 1654. Sadly, while his body was still in the castle waiting for burial, the building was destroyed by a fire.
The burned-out ruins were bought by John Daniels, and then around 1750, by Daniel Ashley, a local lawyer. Daniel's son, Robert Wainwright Ashley, who was also a lawyer, tore down the remaining ruins. He then built a new house called Park Place. Some of the castle's old foundations became the cellars of this new house.
What's There Today?
Today, a larger house called Castle Park House stands on the site. This house is owned and managed by the Cheshire West and Chester Council.
