Castle Stede
A 3D Reconstruction of a Motte and Bailey Castle
A three dimensional reconstruction of Castle Stede, a motte and bailey in the Lune Valley, has been produced using computer game technology. The castle dates back to c 1100 and was used to help control and administer the local area following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It is one of a number of motte and baileys located along the Lune Valley, which together may have once marked a former frontier zone.
The castle was made of earth and timber and all that survives of it today are earthworks – the outer bank and ditch of the bailey (enclosure) and the motte or mound upon which stood a tower. It stood in a naturally defensive location on the shoulder of a steep slope overlooking a crossing point of the River Lune. Within the enclosure would have been stables, pens for cattle, sleeping quarters, kitchens, granaries, and a blacksmith, as well as a hall for the lord who controlled the area and even a small chapel. It would have been protected by a palisade (timber fence), which ran around the top of an earth bank. The tower on the motte was the stronghold of the castle and this would have been connected to the bailey by a temporary bridge.
Castle Stede is located c 0.5km north of Hornby. The site is not accessible to the general public but a footpath runs to the south from which the outer defences of the bailey and the motte are visible.
The 3D reconstruction includes the Loyn Bridge which is also an ancient monument. It is possible to “walk” around the model both as it is today and as it was 900 years ago. The realism is excellent and it is being issued free to schools. If you are interested in a copy of the CD please click on the general feedback link below and make a request.
To view stills from the reconstruction click on the link below and then use your arrow keys to click through the images. The slideshow runs in Adobe Acrobat.
