Willimontswick Gatehouse And Adjacent Ranges

NY 76 SE BARDON MILL WILLIMONTSWICK

8/25 Willimontswick gatehouse and 24/11/67 adjacent ranges (formerly listed as Willimontswyke) GV I

Gatehouse with adjacent ranges, C16, altered. Coursed rubble, stone dressings, slate roofs on adjacent buildings. Rectangular gatehouse at north-east corner of rectangular fortified enclosure, 2-storey east range adjoins south end of gatehouse and single-storey north range runs to west. Front of gatehouse: segmental-headed arch into passage with segmental tunnel vault, scattered fenestration including square-headed opening, with elaborate moulded surround, and 2 2-light mullioned windows with hoodmoulds. Oversailing parapet on 3 rounded stepped courses. Rear elevation similar, with small rectangular lights and one 2-light window over entrance passage, parapet with 2 projecting spouts. Interior has 2 square-headed doorways on right side of passage, the second into newel stair in internal circular turret. Various doorway openings and fireplaces. Altered east range has several C16 or C17 window openings with chamfered surrounds towards courtyard and one 1st floor door with chamfered segmental-pointed head. Roof has old principal rafter trusses with collars. North range, now byres, C18 incorporating earlier masonry towards the west end of the north wall. Segmental-headed arches to courtyard, blocked ventilation slits in rear elevation, principal-rafter roof trusses with collars.

Willimontswick was a fortified manor house rather than a true castle. It is of some note historically as the seat of the Ridley family and birthplace of Bishop Ridley (d.1555).

C. Bates, 'The Border Holds of Northumberland' 1891 383-90

Listing NGR: NY7707063637