Stage 1 of 6: 600 A.D. Just a simple river crossing

This reconstructions explores how a simple river crossing becomes more important over the centuries. Rivers provide a natural barrier and can be difficult to cross. It was natural for people to find places where the river could be crossed and for these crossing points to become important.

Stage 2 of 6: 800 A.D. Vikings invade and set-up camp

Taking advantage of their long-ships' shallow draft hulls the Vikings have sailed up the rivers of Britain and built settlements along the shoreline. It would be many years before King Alfred becomes king of England and drives the Vikings out.

Stage 3 of 6: 1020 A.D. A Saxon village

River crossings were vital routes for trade and transportation during the medieval period. By establishing a fort near a crossing point, the lord could control and regulate the flow of goods and collect tolls from passing merchants and travelers.

Stage 4 of 6: 1080 A.D. A Noman motte and bailey castle

The large earthen mound, the motte, rises sharply from the surrounding landscape and is crowned with a wooden keep or tower offering commanding views of the surrounding countryside and the river crossing.

Stage 5 of 6: 1220 A.D. A shell keep replaces the wooden motte tower

The wooden fortifications on the motte have been replaced by a stone shell keep. Stone provides much better protection for the castle's inhabitants and more luxurious accommodation for the Norman Lord and Lady.

Stage 6 of 6: 1450 A.D. A medieval stone castle

With a licence to crenellate granted by the King, the Lord has replaced the wooden pallisades with stone. A small town has built up within its own stone walls catering to the many visitors to the castle and the growing passing trade.