[3][4] It was surrounded to the north by a semi-circular moat with banks and ramparts, approximately eight feet in depth.

The manor of Stainsby was owned by the Savage family, whose members played prolific roles in the king's armies and in society.

Whilst another Sir John commanded the left wing of the Tudor army at the Battle of Bosworth and became a Knight of the Garter.

Thomas Savage was consecrated Bishop of Rochester, then London (where he also became Chaplain to King Henry VII) and was then made Archbishop of York and Primate of England a position he held from 1501 until his death in 1507.

Around 1580, the manor passed from the hands of the family, eventually being sold on to William Cavendish.