Oxford Castle

Oxford Castle, located in Oxford, was built by a Norman baron Robert d'Oilly in 1071 shortly after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

Related Topics:
Oxford - Norman - Baron - 1071 - Norman Conquest - England - 1066

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It was originally an earth mound with a stone keep on top, known as St George's tower, and later a fifty foot high surrounding wall with towers were added.

Related Topics:
Stone - Keep - St George - Tower

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It was the home of Empress Matilda in 1141 when it was besieged by King Stephen. She escaped from the castle by being lowered over the walls, supposedly dressed in white as camouflage in the snow.

Related Topics:
Empress Matilda - 1141 - Stephen - Castle - Wall - White - Camouflage - Snow

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The site became the seat of the county government and courts although the castle had fallen into disrepair by the 14th century. The county gaol gradually grew to take over most of the site. In 1888 it became HM Prison Oxford. The prison was closed in 1996 and the site passed to Oxfordshire County Council. It has since been redeveloped as a shopping and heritage complex, with open courtyards for markets and theatrical performances.

Related Topics:
14th century - Gaol - 1888 - 1996 - Oxfordshire County Council

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Located in Oxford city centre, it is 12 miles north-west of Wallingford Castle.

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