United Kingdom

Lowther Castle Stead

Medieval ringwork castle and village, Cumbria

Location

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Historical Context

About

Lowther Castle Stead is a medieval site in Cumbria, possibly a ringwork castle. It lies just east of the River Lowther. The castle was probably established in the 11th or 12th century as part of the Norman conquest of the region, and it was out of use by the mid-14th century. A medieval village and church were also established nearby. The medieval castle was first investigated archaeologically in 1997 when the Lancaster University Archaeology Unit carried out an earthwork survey. In 2023, Lancaster University, the University of Central Lancashire, and Allen Archaeology carried out excavations on the site.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Abandonment of castle

mid-14th century

Pele tower established

mid-14th century

Country house abandoned

after World War II

Possible establishment

11th or 12th century

Church dated

late 12th century

Documentary reference

1174

Medieval village demolished

1682

Named Lowther Castle (country house)

19th century

First archaeological survey

1997

Excavations and geophysics

2023

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Defensive Structures

CastlesTowersDefensive Walls
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

VillagesHouses
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Landscaped EarthworksArtificial Mounds
category

Transportation and Communication Structures

Roads
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Reference

Details

Country

United Kingdom

Coordinates

54.61° N, -2.75° E