Virtual Middleham Castle
1 of 5: Welcome to the virtual tour of Middleham Castle
These images show how the castle may have looked in around the year 1300. If you have the VRML plug-in installed you can explore this castle. There are details on the right of this page explaining how to install the plug-in and how to move around in VRML worlds.
2 of 5: Layout of the castle
The castle consisted of two sections, an outer and inner bailey, both surrounded by a wall and ditch. The main entrance to the castle was through a gatehouse into the outer bailey.
3 of 5: The bailey
The bailey provided living quarters for the Lord's servants and retainers. There would have been houses and workplaces for skilled workers such as blacksmiths and stables for horses. The outer bailey was protected by a wall and ditch but those who lived and worked there could move into the inner bailey if the castle was attacked.
4 of 5: The inner ward
The inner ward consists of a strong outer wall, a ditch and the most important part, the keep. At this time, there would have been simple buildings arranged on the inside sections of the walls. These were later replaced by grander accommodation in the fifteenth century. Corner towers provided protection for the walls.The entrance to the inner ward was via a gatehouse in the east wall. This was later changed.
5 of 5: The Keep
The keep's construction was started in around 1170. Rectangular in shape, it has four corner towers. The main entrance is situated on the first floor and was accessed by a set of stairs on the east wall. Internally the keep had two floors and each floor was divided into two. The lower floor held rooms for storage and kitchens while the upper floor held the Great Hall for dining the chambers for sleep.- http://www.timeref.com/virtual/v1709.htm
