He was the eldest son of Ranulph de Greystoke and Amabel Balliol.

He was under the wardship of William de Stuteville before 1194, when he served during a campaign in Normandy.

William died in 1209 and was succeeded by his son Thomas, [1] who was in his minority.

Robert de Vipont, who paid 500 marks and 5 palfreys for the wardship of Thomas and the right to William's widow Helewise, was given custody of Thomas.

Robert wed his daughter Christian and Thomas.