Wressle Castle

Overview

Wressle Castle is a late medieval quadrangular castle located in East Yorkshire, near the River Derwent. Built in the late 14th century, it was one of the great houses of the powerful Percy family, earls of Northumberland. Unlike heavily fortified castles of earlier centuries, Wressle was designed as both a residence and a symbol of prestige, blending defensive features with domestic comfort. Today only one wing of the castle survives, with the rest lost through fire and deliberate dismantling in the 17th century.

Early history

The manor of Wressle was acquired by Thomas Percy in the 14th century, and construction of the castle is generally attributed to his son, Thomas Percy, 1st Earl of Worcester, in the 1390s. The design followed the quadrangular style, with four ranges set around a central courtyard and corner towers for both defence and display. After Thomas Percy’s execution in 1403, Wressle passed through the Percy family estates and became one of their principal residences.

Building and layout

The castle was an impressive structure with high curtain walls, corner towers, and a gatehouse. Inside, it housed grand apartments, a great hall, service buildings, and a chapel. It was set within landscaped grounds and gardens, demonstrating the wealth and influence of the Percys. The castle’s layout reflected its dual role: defensible if required, but primarily a luxurious residence suited to aristocratic life in the later Middle Ages.

Later history and decline

Wressle remained with the Percys for centuries, but during the English Civil War it was seized by Parliament. In 1648, Parliament ordered the slighting of the castle to prevent further military use, and much of the structure was deliberately demolished. What remained continued in use as a residence until a devastating fire in 1796 destroyed the inhabited range. By the 19th century, the castle was a romantic ruin, attracting antiquarian interest.

Present condition

Today the south range of Wressle Castle, including parts of its towers and walls, still stands, while the rest survives only as earthworks and foundations. The ruin is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Monument. Though privately owned, it is visible from surrounding paths and fields, and occasional open days allow closer access. The remains serve as a reminder of the power of the Percy family and the turbulent history of northern England.