De Irebys Tower And Outer Bailey Wall

De Irebys Tower and the outer bailey wall are part of Carlisle Castle, dating back to the 12th century, with various rebuilds and alterations over the years. The walls are primarily constructed from squared blocks of red and calciferous sandstone, featuring battered and broad pilasters. The tower, which has a flat lead roof, includes a core from a 13th-century structure that was expanded by John Lewyn between 1378 and 1383, along with 19th-century alterations and 20th-century restorations.

The outer bailey is roughly rectangular, with its walls continuing from the inner bailey on the north and south sides, while the west walls complete the enclosure. The south wall features an off-centre gate tower, which serves as the main entrance to the castle. The structure has three storeys arranged in a rough L-shape, with a central through-archway that retains a portcullis and an iron-studded wooden door. Various sash windows are present, most of which are in enlarged openings. Above the archway is a blank panel that originally displayed a coat of arms, set into a barbican that was crenellated in 1819.

The site underwent extensive restoration between 1988 and 1989, during which some external stone was replaced, including stone that had weathered since its replacement in 1874. The interior was not inspected. At the south-west angle of the structure was a battery, with a similar battery located at the north-west angle on an existing tower. The north walls have experienced multiple collapses and rebuilds, although some medieval walling remains intact. A continuous parapet walk around the walls has been cut away in places, likely during alterations in 1819 or 1832. For further details, see McCarthy et al (1990).