Hanley Castle (castle) facts for kids
Hanley Castle was once a strong castle built in the Norman style. It was located near the village of Hanley Castle in Worcestershire, England. This area is about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) north of Upton-upon-Severn. Castles like this were important buildings long ago.
The Castle's Early Years
Hanley Castle was built a long time ago, between the years 1206 and 1212. It was ordered by King John, who was the King of England at that time. After King John, his son Henry III became king. In 1216, King Henry III gave the castle to a powerful nobleman named Gilbert de Clare, 4th Earl of Hertford.
The castle stayed with the important de Clare family for many years, until 1314. The de Clares were a very influential family in England during that period.
What Happened to the Castle?
After the de Clare family, Hanley Castle had several different owners over time. In 1487, the castle and its surrounding land, called a manor, were given back to the Crown. This means it became property of the King or Queen again.
Over the years, the castle slowly started to fall apart. It became very ruined during the time of King Henry VIII. Most of the castle was taken down because it was in such bad shape. It is believed that the stones from the last remaining tower were used in 1795. These stones were used to help fix a bridge in a nearby town called Upton upon Severn.
Today, you won't find any parts of the original castle building. There was a modern house built on some of the old castle land, but it burned down in 1904. Now, the spot where the castle once stood is marked by tall evergreen trees. You can also see a dry ditch and bank, which are the last parts of the old moat that once protected the castle.
