Durham Castle, North East, England

Durham Castle dates from the end of the 11th Century.  William the Conqueror gave the custody of the castle to the Bishop of Durham and it remained in the hands of successive Bishops for the next 750 years. The Bishops of Durham therefore also held an important military post, which they exercised on the King’s behalf, alongside their spiritual responsibilities. 

The keep at Durham and the 12th Century hall are the oldest parts of the castle.  Although much altered today from its original, the motte and bailey courtyard is still recognisable.  Many of the old medieval buildings have been incorporated or engulfed by more modern structures.