Brompton Castle Hill

Description

Site of a fortified house located on a steep natural hill in the north east corner of the village of Brompton, overlooking a millpond that was created by utilising a natural spring. The monument occupies the end of a spur of high ground, with steep slopes down to the south and west. The north and north east parts of the protected area are on the highest ground, where the remains of two buildings can be interpreted. In the northern part of the area there is a slightly raised and levelled area with traces of stonework protruding along its eastern edge. This forms a roughly rectangular shape measuring 22m by 20m. In the south east area the remains of another building are evident, standing in places more than 1m above the surrounding area. This forms an irregular rectangle approximately 15m by 7m, and is evidently the rubble mound of a substantial fallen building. Connecting these two structures is another raised area, 25m long and 4m wide, with a faint earthwork to its west, perhaps indicating a further structure. The site is interpreted as a fortified medieval manor, with an unusual location and design. It was probably situated to protect the spring below, with a defence line along the north and east sides and protected on the south and west sides by steep natural slopes. The area also includes two small brick buildings measuring approximately 2.80m by 2.10m and 2.30m high, with concrete roofs and a simple entrance with no windows. These were built for the Home Guard during World War II, apparently as ammunition stores. (Scheduling Report)

Comments

Remains of motte, signs of masonry, wet defenses. Supposed seat of Northumbrian Kings.