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Falling to Parliamentarian forces in 1649
- During the 17th-century English Civil War, Pontefract Castle was a strategic stronghold for the Royalist cause. It endured three sieges before finally falling to Parliamentarian forces in 1649. Following its surrender, an order was issued for the castle’s systematic demolition to prevent it from being used in further conflict.
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Pontefract (or Pomfret) Castle is a castle ruin in the town of Pontefract, in West Yorkshire, England King Richard II is thought to have died there. It was the site of a series of famous sieges during the 17th-century English Civil War .
Nov 24, 2020 · Pontefract Castle. Wakefield, England, United Kingdom. Originally a Norman structure, Pontefract castle played an increasingly important role in English Royal history for over 500 years. Today it lies in ruins but has much for visitors to enjoy, including its underground dungeons.
- Sarah Roller
Pontefract Castle was, remarkably, the last castle to surrender to the victorious Parliamentarians at the end of the Civil War. In fact, the castle remained staunchly Royalist until the war was unquestionably won by the Parliamentarians.
Learn more about visiting Pontefract Castle, Key to the North! Find out our opening hours, access information, things to see and do and stories from the Castle’s incredible history.
By the 13 th century, Pontefract Castle had been transformed from a humble wooden fort to a formidable stronghold. In fact, the castle was so impressive that when Oliver Cromwell attacked in 1649, he called it ‘one of the strongest inland garrisons in the kingdom’.
The execution of traitors, the imprisonment of enemies and even the murder of kings - it all happened in Pontefract.
The de Lacy family enlarged Pontefract Castle, making it one of the mightiest fortresses in England. However, when Roger de Lacy died in 1211, King John confiscated the castle. He made...
