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Keys to the Past

Featherstone Castle (Featherstone)

Featherstone Castle is a large and complex country house. It is four-sided with a central courtyard and a tower at each corner. The tallest tower is 14th century and is the main piece of medieval work in the building. The origins of the castle lie in the medieval period when the manor of Featherstone belonged to the Featherstonehaugh family. The oldest part of the building may be a 13th century hall house, which now lies within the west range, or Gun Room. This early work is difficult to interpret and some of it may not be in its original position. In the 14th century the tower was added to the building and it is typical of many towers in south Northumberland. Little changed at the castle from this time until the 17th century, when it was remodelled. However, we do not know a great deal about the layout of the castle at this time. A few 17th century architectural features survive and show Gothic tendencies, a fashion also revived in Scotland and Yorkshire at this time. The 19th century saw more work at the castle when it was remodelled and extended between 1812 and 1820. This is a Grade I Listed Building protected by law.

Reference number: N6124
Historical period: Medieval (1066 to 1540)
Post-medieval (1540 to 1900)

See also:
Source of Reference
Local History of Featherstone
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).

Featherstone Castle, Featherstone. Photo by Peter Ryder.
Featherstone Castle, Featherstone. Photo by Peter Ryder.

Disclaimer - Please note that this information has been compiled from a number of different sources. Durham County Council and Northumberland County Council can accept no responsibility for any inaccuracy contained therein. If you wish to use/copy any of the images, please ensure that you read the Copyright information provided.

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