Owston Ferry Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Owston Ferry Castle |
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| Owston Ferry | |
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| Site information | |
| Controlled by | North Lincolnshire Council |
| Open to the public |
yes |
| Condition | ruin |
| Site history | |
| Built | c. 1070 rebuilt: 1174 |
| Demolished | 1095, 1174 |
| Battles/wars | Revolt of 1173–74 |
Owston Ferry Castle (also known as Kinnard's Ferry Castle) was once a strong fortress in the village of Owston Ferry. This village is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) north of Gainsborough, in Lincolnshire. Today, only ruins remain, but they tell a fascinating story of medieval times.
Contents
Owston Ferry Castle: A Glimpse into History
Building and Early Days
The very first castle here was likely built soon after the Norman Conquest. This was when William the Conqueror took over England in 1066. These early castles helped the Normans control the land. Owston Ferry Castle was first taken apart in 1095.
Rebuilding and Royal Conflict
The castle was rebuilt in 1173 by a powerful lord named Roger de Mowbray. He rebuilt it to support Prince Henry. Prince Henry was in a big fight with his own father, King Henry II. This conflict was known as the Revolt of 1173–74.
King Henry II was very powerful. He did not want his son or anyone else to challenge his rule. Because Roger de Mowbray supported Prince Henry, King Henry II ordered Owston Ferry Castle to be destroyed. This happened in 1174, not long after it was rebuilt.
What Remains Today
Today, you can still see the site of the castle's motte. A motte is a large, raised mound of earth. It was the main part of an early castle, often with a wooden tower on top. The motte at Owston Ferry is now a broad, grassy hill.
The area around the castle site is now a Local Nature Reserve. This means it is a special place where nature is protected. You can visit and imagine what the castle looked like long ago.
