Pontefract in West Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
Welcome to one of England's largest castles
Photographed by Ray Gurganus, April 16, 2025
1. Welcome to one of England's largest castles Marker
Pontefract Castle was built around 1070 by one of William the Conqueror's most loyal knights, Ilbert De Lacy. Back then it was a wooden motte and bailey castle. Throughout the following centuries the castle was extended and converted to stone, becoming one of England's largest castles. Its position and construction was so good that it proved to be impenetrable to cannon fire, yet the keep (to your left) is in ruins. Explore the site to find out why!
Did you know?
The name Pontefract means 'broken bridge' in Latin but the bridge has long since gone.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Forts and Castles. A significant historical year for this entry is 1070 CE.
Location. 53° 41.696′ N, 1° 18.235′ W. Marker is in Pontefract, England, in West Yorkshire. It can be reached from Castle Garth. On the grounds of Pontefract Castle. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 6 Castle Garth, Pontefract, England WF8, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in England’s Yorkshire & The Humber. Globally, it is on the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Atlantic Region,
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: John de Lacy (here, next to this marker); Herb Garden (within shouting distance of this marker); Flower Power (within shouting distance of this marker); Heard the one about the Trojan Bed? (within shouting distance of this marker); A Secure Store (within shouting distance of this marker); Medieval toilets, drains and mines (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); Dig for Victory! (about 120 meters away); A thousand mouths to feed and water (about 120 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Pontefract.
Photographed by Ray Gurganus, April 16, 2025
2. Welcome to one of England's largest castles Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 4, 2025. It was originally submitted on July 23, 2025, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 78 times since then and 14 times this year. Last updated on July 30, 2025, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 23, 2025, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
