Salmon Coops To South Of Corby Castle

The salmon coops, dating from the 12th century with later repairs, are located south of Corby Castle and were built for Wetheral Priory. The structure resembles a bridge and features three splayed cutwater piers made of dressed red sandstone, along with two abutments integrated into the bed and bank of the River Eden. This area is situated between the east bank and Monk's Island, where the river flows in two channels. It is believed that the monks may have created the east channel specifically to catch salmon, although it could also be a natural feature.

Between the piers and abutments, there are wooden pans and sluice-gates designed to catch salmon swimming upstream to spawn. These can be cleared using trap-doors located above. A cat-walk extends over the piers, functioning as a bridge. While it is challenging to date specific elements of the structure, it likely retains features from the 12th century. Historical documents related to the Priory mention the necessary Royal licenses required for the strict control of such a structure. After the dissolution of the monasteries, the coops were transferred to the Howard family of Corby Castle, who still own and occasionally use them. There is also a wooden crane on the bank, which was likely intended for lifting the pens in and out of the water.