In the Middle Ages, Pontefract Castle was one of the most important fortresses in the country. It became a royal castle in 1399, upon the accession of Henry Bolinbroke to the throne. Richard II subsequently died in the castle the following year after being one of many important prisoners to lodge there.

During the English Civil War it was held by the King's supporters throughout three sieges, but as a result, after 1649, it was largely demolished. The remains of the castle, and the underground magazine chamber, are open to visitors.

Future developments

We are working alongside English Heritage to carry out major improvement works at Pontefract Castle. The castle is now a Scheduled Monument and the preservation of the site is therefore a key priority. We have just been awarded £280,000 from English Heritage, that coupled with £280,000 from Wakefield Council's own capital investment fund, will be put towards securing the future of Pontefract Castle.

But now we need you help!  We need your views on the development of the castle, for more information see the future developments page.