Castlehaw motte and bailey

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Historical Environment Record No:
MYD3612
Parish:
Sedbergh
OS Grid Reference:
SD662922
Dale:
Cumbria
Related to:

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Description

Castlehaw reconstruction MYD3612 (c) YDNPA, 2023

Castlehaw reconstruction MYD3612 (c) YDNPA, 2023

Castlehaw is an oval motte just over 9 metres high surrounded by a ditch about 4.6 metres wide except on the south where there is a steep scarp. The motte top measures about 9 metres east to west by about 7 metres north-south. The bailey measuring about a tenth of a hectare (a quarter of an acre) now forms a terrace.

The motte commands excellent views across the town to the Lune valley and down Garsdale and the Rawthey valley, the bridge at Millthrop would also have been originally visible. The motte was built as an early part of the system of control instituted by the Norman conquerors. It dates to the late 11th century AD.

Source:

Higham, Mary C (1991) ‘The Mottes of North Lancashire, Lonsdale and South Cumbria’ TCWAAS. Vol 91 pp79-90

Location

East side of Sedbergh. After junction Back Lane and Main Street take public footpath heading north signposted 'Castlehaw 1/4 mile'. After 270 metres take small gate on right. Site is directly ahead 100 metres across the field. Interpretation panel.

Public Transport Details

Nearest town/village: Sedbergh. Call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 to plan your journey. After the welcome message key in 874 for Cumbria information.

Accessibility

Sloping footpath, rough in places. Narrow gate and sloping grassy field to cross. Step stile onto site.