History of Brough Castle

Brough Castle was constructed on the site of the Roman fort of Verteris, one in a chain of forts guarding the road running from York over the Pennines to Carlisle. The castle’s strong defensive position, on a steep slope above Swindall Beck, and its sturdy walls are eloquent reminders that, at the beginning of the 12th century, this area of England was in constant danger of attack from the kings of Scotland.

The late 13th-century Clifford's Tower, built by Roger Clifford, with the rectangular Tudor windows inserted by Lady Anne Clifford

The medieval castle

The oldest parts of the castle date back to about 1100, although these are just scanty traces since, in 1174, William the Lion, King of Scotland, captured Brough and set it on fire: as a result almost the entire keep was destroyed.

By the time King John gave Brough to Robert de Vieuxpont in 1203, a new keep had been built. Robert, who owned nearby Brougham Castle too, was a loyal supporter of the Crown and rebuilt the gatehouse. He may also have added some domestic buildings before the castle passed to the Cliffords in 1268.

A portrait medallion depicting Lady Anne Clifford in old age

A Clifford residence

Robert Clifford, who became one of the leading barons of his day, built a new hall and Clifford’s Tower at the south-east end of the courtyard as a residence for himself and his family.

Scottish attacks led to the strengthening of the curtain wall in 1314 and 1319. Brough experienced its greatest period of change in the hands of Roger Clifford, who completely altered the layout of the living quarters in the 14th century.

The Cliffords seem to have spent much time at Brough, celebrating Christmas there with a great feast in 1521. Unfortunately fire broke out and devastated the whole castle, destroying floors, windows and doors.

Lady Anne Clifford

Had it not been for the intervention of Lady Anne Clifford, the story of Brough might have ended there. She inherited the castle from her father, George, Earl of Cumberland, and in 1659 she took it in hand, making substantial additions (such as the stables) and lovingly restoring the damaged parts.

After her death in 1676, Brough was neglected and allowed to decay: in 1763 the domestic wing was robbed of stone to repair Brough Mill. In 1920 the castle was placed in the guardianship of the Ministry of Works.