De Irebys Tower And Outer Bailey Wall

CARLISLE

NY3956SE CARLISLE CASTLE 671-1/6/1 De Irebys Tower and outer bailey 01/06/49 wall

GV I

Gate tower and curtain walls, with interval towers. C12 walls, partly rebuilt at various periods; C13 tower forms the core of present 1378-83 tower by John Lewyn; C19 alterations and C20 restorations. Squared blocks of red and calciferous sandstone with battered and broad pilasters; tower has flat lead roof. Outer bailey is roughly rectangular and its enclosing walls are a continuation of the inner bailey walls on the north and south side; west walls complete the circuit. The south wall has an off-centre gate tower (the main entrance to the castle). 3 storeys in rough L-shape; central through-archway retains portcullis and iron-studded wooden door; various sash windows most in enlarged openings. Over the arch is a blank panel (originally with coat of arms) set into a barbican which was crenellated in 1819. Extensively restored 1988-9 with some external stone replaced (stone replaced in 1874 has weathered in). INTERIOR not inspected. At the south-west angle was a battery, and a similar battery was at the north-west angle set on an existing tower. Halfway along the west wall is the postern gate, guarded by a projecting rectangular tower. The north walls have collapsed and been rebuilt on a number of occasions but some medieval walling remains. Continuous parapet walk around the walls has been cut away in places, probably in 1819 or 1832. For full details see McCarthy et al (1990).

Listing NGR: NY3970056192