Motte of Aldborough Castle, known as Studforth Hill, in 2010.
Aldborough Castle was a medieval fortification located in the village of Aldborough, North Yorkshire. It was built on or near the site of the former Roman town of Isurium Brigantum and possibly reused part of the Roman amphitheatre. The site is now marked by a raised earthwork known as Studforth Hill, named after the Stuteville family who once held the manor.[1]
The first mention of a “castle” at Aldborough appears in a royal charter of 1115, in which King Stephen granted “de castello de Aldeburgo” to the monks of St. Martin in Albemarle. However, this mention may be a misattribution meant for Skipsea Castle, as no clear archaeological evidence supports the existence of a major stone structure here. Scholars now suggest that Aldborough Castle may have been a timber motte or ringwork, possibly erected in the 11th or early 12th century.[2]
Development under the Stutevilles
From around 1175 to 1205, Aldborough was held by the Stuteville family, a prominent Norman lineage. During this time, the castle may have been strengthened with timber palisades or additional earthworks. There is no evidence that a stone keep or curtain wall was ever constructed. After 1205, the estate returned to the Crown and soon declined in prominence.[2]
Decline and abandonment
By the 13th century, Aldborough Castle had seemingly been abandoned. There are no further historical references to fortification work or occupancy beyond this period. Modern archaeological surveys show only damaged earthworks and no evidence of masonry, suggesting that the site was likely a timber structure that did not survive into the high medieval period.[2]
Archaeology
Today, the only visible remains of Aldborough Castle are the motte and associated earthworks. Known locally as Studforth Hill, the mound is roughly circular and consistent with either a motte-and-bailey or ringwork form of early medieval fortification. The site is located just outside the known walls of Roman Isurium and may have been constructed to command the area following the Norman conquest.[1]
Location
The site of the former castle lies to the southwest of Aldborough village, North Yorkshire. The modern Ordnance Survey grid reference is SE 4065 6670. The surrounding terrain is predominantly agricultural, and no structural remains of the castle are visible above ground.[2]
Significance
While no stonework remains, Aldborough Castle holds historical importance due to its likely reuse of Roman structures, such as the amphitheatre of Isurium. It provides insight into the Norman strategy of establishing authority by constructing timber castles at key Roman sites. Additionally, the connection with the Stutevilles and royal charter traditions underlines its feudal significance during the 12th century.[1][2]
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