Fotheringhay Castle

Fotheringhay Castle was a medieval fortified manor in the village of Fotheringhay in Northamptonshire, England, notable for its connections with the Yorkist dynasty and later Tudor history. The castle is chiefly remembered as the site of the trial and execution of Mary, Queen of Scots in 1587.

Today the castle survives only as earthworks, a motte and the low remains of masonry that mark the former layout; the site is visited for its historical associations rather than standing architecture. It served as a noble residence and stronghold in the medieval period and later fell into disuse and deliberate demolition.

Originally constructed in the medieval period, the castle was a seat for prominent noble families and played roles in dynastic and royal events across the 14th to 16th centuries. After the Tudor period it was dismantled and much of the stone was repurposed elsewhere, leaving the earthworks visible today.

The ruins lie beside the village of Fotheringhay, beside the River Nene in Northamptonshire, within easy reach of nearby market towns.

• Ruined remains: Site is primarily ruins and earthworks rather than intact buildings, so interpretation focuses on the footprint and historical events that occurred there.
• Historic execution site: Best known as the place where Mary, Queen of Scots was tried and executed in 1587, a key event in late Tudor history.

What to See #

• Motte and earthworks: Surviving earthworks and masonry footings that mark the castle's former motte-and-bailey layout, visible as grassy banks and low stone remnants in the village.