This was extended to include a great hall, and probably a tower-defended courtyard, by John Cartington in 1442 when he was granted a licence to crenellate his home.

Nearly ten years later, Lord Dacre stationed his troops here on a march north to join the Earl of Surrey.

Sir Edward Widdrington raised 2,000 foot Royalist soldiers and 200 horse and withheld a Parliamentary siege for over two hours in 1648, but the castle was eventually taken and slighted by the enemy.

In 1887 Lord Armstrong partially restored the castle in order to prevent its complete disintegration.

Whilst ruinous, the castle is protected by its status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and as a Grade I listed building.