| The gatehouse was built in the early 15th century by Ralph Neville, second earl of Westmorland. The earliest reference to the castle is in 1464, when Henry VI fled there after the Battle of Hexham. By the 17th century the castle was described as 'in decay'. It stands three storeys high and, although roofless, the shell remains largely intact. It was built as part of a large enclosure and part of a curtain wall still survives between the tower and a modern house nearby. Many Roman stones have been used to build the gatehouse. This is a Scheduled Monument and a Grade I Listed Building protected by law. See also:
Source of Reference
Local History of Bywell
Location of this site on a map, with option to view historical maps. Please note this link will open a new window. To return to this page please close the new window.
The Past Perfect web site for an example of a medieval castle (Wark). | 
Bywell Castle gatehouse. Photo Northumberland County Council.
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