Who was beheaded at Pontefract?
Thomas, Earl of Lancaster
Thomas, Earl of Lancaster (circa 1278–1322) was beheaded outside the castle walls six days after his defeat at the Battle of Boroughbridge, a sentence placed on him by King Edward II himself in the great hall. This resulted in the earl becoming a martyr with his tomb at Pontefract Priory becoming a shrine.
Is Pontefract Castle free?
Pontefract Castle is a place of family-friendly adventure, with wide open spaces to play and fascinating ruins to investigate. Entrance to the castle is FREE and you do not need to book. For opening hours, parking and travel information please see our Visitor Information page.
Which king died in Pontefract Castle?
Richard II
Shakespeare cruelly immortalised the town as “Bloody Pomfret” because of the death at Pontefract Castle (in mysterious circumstances) of Richard II. The 11th-century castle, an architectural miracle of its time, was where Richard was imprisoned.
What happened at Pontefract Castle?
Pontefract was the site of some dark moments in history – in 1311, Edward II gained the upper hand on his own cousin, Thomas Earl of Lancaster, and had him executed in the castle- along with beheading 20 other rebels.
How old is Pontefract?
It was the main settlement of modern West Yorkshire. Modern day Pontefract can be traced back to the Saxon times and featured in the Domesday Book, albeit as two separate villages. The two areas slowly merged and became known as Pontefract, or Pomfret, around the 12th century.
Can you walk around Pontefract Castle?
Free and a lovely walk.
Is Pontefract a nice place to live?
Pontefract is one of those seemingly rare places in England that’s both vibrant and lively with plenty going on, yet far from the madding crowd at the same time.
Where is Pontefract Castle in West Yorkshire England?
Coordinates: 53°41′44″N 1°18′14″W / 53.69556°N 1.30389°W / 53.69556; -1.30389 Pontefract (or, Pomfret) Castle is a castle ruin in the town of Pontefract, in West Yorkshire, England.
Who is the owner of Pontefract Castle in Wakefield?
Wakefield Council, who own the site, commissioned William Anelay Ltd to begin repairs on the castle in September 2015, but work stopped in November 2016 when Anelay went into administration. The Council then engaged Heritage Building & Conservation (North) Ltd, who began work on the site in March 2017.
When did Ilbert de Lacy build Pontefract Castle?
Model reconstructing Pontefract Castle The castle, on a rock to the east of the town above All Saints’ Church, was constructed in approximately 1070 by Ilbert de Lacy. on land which had been granted to him by William the Conqueror as a reward for his support during the Norman Conquest. There is, however, evidence of earlier occupation of the site.
What kind of Castle was Pontefract in the Domesday survey?
Initially the castle was a wooden structure which was replaced with stone over time. The Domesday Survey of 1086 recorded “Ilbert’s Castle” which probably referred to Pontefract Castle.
