Conisbrough Castle boasts the finest Circular Norman Keep Tower in the UK. This testament to the Stone Masons of medieval England was built during the 1180s by the fifth Earl of Surrey, Hamelin Plantagenet half brother of the Angevin Kings of England, Henry 11
Built on the site of a timber motte-and-bailey castle, the white, cylindrical keep of this 12th-century castle is a spectacular structure. Built of magnesian limestone, it is the only example of its kind in England. Following the demise of its owners, the de Warenne family, Conisbrough Castle rapidly lost its importance. By the end of the 1400s it had been abandoned as a residence and, ironically, it was its state of disrepair that saved it from destruction during the English Civil War.
In 1994, following five centuries of neglect, two new floors and a roof were placed into the castle keep, and today it is considered to be one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Europe.
Experience for yourself the atmosphere of this medieval castle, inspiration for Sir Walter Scott’s classic novel, "Ivanhoe".Climb to the top of the magnificent keep for breath-taking views across the breadth of Yorkshire: from Emley Moor in the west to the docks at Goole in the east.
There is a Visitor Centre with a gift shop, displays and information and various events are held during summer.
Option of guided tours for pre-booked groups.
North East of Conisbrough town centre off A630, 4 miles South West of Doncaster.
For further information please visit their website at www.conisbroughcastle.org.uk
