[2][3] In 1371, prompted by the threat of war with France, a commission examined the problem of Beverley's defences again, once again with little result.

[2] At the beginning of the 15th century, during the reign of Henry IV, the political situation in England became unstable and further steps were taken to improve Beverley's defences.

[1] The Town Council had North Bar rebuilt in brick between 1409 and 1410, with a portcullis and parapets; the work cost £97 11d.

The defences of Beverley were then reinforced with new ditches, the gatehouses were repaired and a garrison of 900 men guarded the town.

[1] Today only traces of the original ditches and the North Bar gate remain intact; the latter is considered by archaeologists Oliver Creighton and Robert Higham to be the "best surviving example in England of a brick-built town gate".