The Keep (University College)

The Keep, now used as college study bedrooms, was built between 1345 and 1381 for Bishop Hatfield. It was rebuilt in 1839-40 by Salvin for the University. The structure is made of coursed squared sandstone with ashlar dressings and has an irregular octagonal plan. It features a high motte with two encircling retaining walls. The building has a high plinth with sloped coping, angle buttresses that are corbelled out to a parapet walkway, and irregular fenestration that mimics the original design. The windows include one, two, and three lights with stone mullions, some of which are square-headed and some have cusped lights; there are also some two-centred arched windows with tracery. The retaining walls, made of squared rubble, support the motte on the north, east, and south sides.