Fortified Houses
Vicar’s Pele Tower, Ponteland
I couldn’t resist exploring the Vicar’s Pele Tower in Ponteland after visiting St Mary the Virgin Church. After all, the Pele Tower is literally around the corner from the church. In fact, the Pele Tower was used as a vicarage after it was rebuilt in the 17th century. Sadly, most of the building was…
Read MoreLlawhaden Castle, Pembrokeshire, Wales
We’ve taken a little country road off the busy A40 to see a castle that is not really a castle. Llawhaden Castle in Pembrokeshire, Wales is in fact a fortified mansion, but it looks very much like a castle – which makes it even more intriguing. The day was grey and sadly, the…
Read MoreThe Vicar’s Pele Tower, Corbridge
Located in the North-East of England, Corbridge saw its fair share of violent attacks during the Middle Ages. The Scots often ran amok in the area, bringing death and destruction. It is no surprise then, that a defensive structure was built in this little town. And I wanted to know more. So, on a…
Read MoreBishop’s Palace, St David’s, Wales
St David’s is rich in history. And was certainly a very important destination during the Middle Ages. In the 12thcentury, the Pope decreed that two trips to St David’s is equal to one trip to Rome – you can imagine how pilgrims flocked to this tiny city! People still do today. It…
Read MoreThe Camera of Adam of Jesmond
In the tranquil surroundings of Heaton Park, in the city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, stands the ruin of the Camera of Adam. The historical value of this building is substantial, as it is an early example of a medieval fortified hall house. At this time, in the 13th century, not just anyone could build a fortified house. …
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