Ravensworth Castle

Ravensworth Castle is a Grade II* listed structure featuring two eastern towers and remnants of a curtain wall. The castle's origins are believed to date back to the 12th century, with some sources suggesting late 13th century construction. The 14th century plan includes four towers and a curtain wall that forms a square enclosure, without a keep, similar to other castles from that period. The building is constructed from coursed squared sandstone with ashlar dressings and stands three storeys tall. The southern tower has an elliptical-headed entrance on the north face and four lancet windows on the west ground floor, typical of the late 13th century. The northern tower features a mullioned and transomed window on the first floor north face. Historically, Ravensworth Castle was owned by the Fitz-Marmadukes, then by the Lumleys in the 14th and 15th centuries, and later by the Gascoignes. Thomas Liddell, a Newcastle merchant, purchased it in 1607, and it remained in the Liddell family until 1976. Sir Thomas Liddell, who later became Lord Ravensworth, demolished all but these towers of the original house. The site is also designated as a scheduled ancient monument.