Peveril Castle

Peveril Castle overlooks the village of Castleton in the Peak District of Derbyshire and sits on a prominent limestone crag above the Hope Valley. The castle was founded in the decades after the Norman Conquest by William Peverel and later developed as a royal and administrative stronghold.

The surviving ruins include portions of the stone keep, hall, gatehouse and curtain walls, set on a steep rocky promontory that provides commanding views of the valley below. Visitors approach the site on a steep path from Castleton; the fortification is a compact ruined castle rather than a large concentric fortress.

The castle was established in the late 11th or early 12th century and played roles in the medieval administration of the Peak region before falling out of military use and into ruin. It is now accessible to the public within the Peak District National Park.

Peveril Castle stands above Castleton in Derbyshire, in England’s Peak District, on a limestone outcrop that dominates the local landscape.

• Location and access: Perched on a limestone outcrop above Castleton, it offers long views across Hope Valley and is reached by a steep footpath from the village.
• Founding and remains: Originates as a Norman fortress founded by William Peverel in the years after the Norman Conquest; visible remains include parts of the keep, hall and curtain walls.