| Abstract | Middleham Castle was built by Robert Fitzrandolph, 3rd Lord of Middleham and Spennithorne, commencing in 1190. It was built near the site of an earlier motte and bailey castle. In 1270 it came into the hands of the Neville family, the most notable member of which was Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick, known to history as the 'Kingmaker', a leading figure in the Wars of the Roses. Richard, Duke of Gloucester, lived here under Warwick's care. After Richard III's death at Bosworth in 1485 the castle remained in royal hands until the reign of James I when it was sold. It fell into disuse and disrepair during the 17th century. It was garrisoned during the Civil War but saw no action. The ruins are now in the care of English Heritage. |