The Fortification of Wolvesey

During the reign of King Stephen, there was a civil war – both Stephen and the Empress Matilda were claiming the English throne. As Stephen's brother and advisor, Bishop Henry was close to the centre of these affairs.

Wymond's Tower. Some of the later casing has fallen away to expose the earlier smaller tower. Also visible are the chambers which gave access to arrowloops in the wall, where defenders could fire down on any attackers © English Heritage. In 1141, King Stephen was captured by Matilda's forces. Henry deserted his brother, welcoming the empress to Winchester and preparing to consecrate her as queen. However, he was soon alienated by her attitude and returned to his brother's cause.

With the help of Stephen's other supporters, Henry laid siege to Winchester, with Matilda trapped inside. Accounts of the siege are confusing, but Wolvesey certainly played its part. At the height of the fighting, Bishop Henry's defenders rained down fire on the town, destroying part of the city. The empress was defeated and Stephen was restored to the throne.

Bishop Henry had betrayed both sides in the conflict. Possibly because of his insecure position in the years following the siege, he fortified his palace, erecting a large square tower and the encasing a small latrine tower in stone to form the defensive Wymond's Tower. Henry seems to have been attempting to restore his reputation as a leading figure of authority, giving his palace the appearance of a strong castle.